Mahendra Singh Dhoni has always been synonymous with excellence and finishing prowess in the IPL. In IPL 2024, despite limited opportunities, Dhoni has made his presence felt with some electrifying cameos. As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up to face their fierce rivals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), on May 18 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, all eyes will be on the veteran to deliver again.

MS Dhoni’s Sparkling Performance in IPL 2024

MS Dhoni has shown that age is just a number. Even at 42, his finishing abilities remain sharp. Although a knee issue has limited his mobility, he has still managed to roll back the years with crucial knocks, proving his worth in high-pressure situations.

See Also: Check Virat Kohli’s records against CSK in IPL

Key Innings of the Season

Dhoni’s unbeaten 37 off 16 balls against Delhi Capitals in Visakhapatnam was a display of vintage Dhoni. In other matches, he has played impactful cameos like the 4-ball 20 against Mumbai Indians, a 9-ball 28 against Lucknow Super Giants, and an 11-ball 26 against Gujarat Titans. These innings have often come in crunch situations, underscoring his role as a finisher.

Dhoni vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Dhoni performed his best against RCB. In his first match against them, he scored 65 off 30 balls, setting the tone for many memorable innings. Over the years, he has notched up four fifties against RCB, with a standout unbeaten 84 being his highest score.

Statistical Breakdown

• Overall IPL Career: Dhoni has scored 5218 runs in 228 innings, with a strike rate of 137.35, including 24 fifties.
• Against RCB: He has amassed 839 runs in 32 innings, with four fifties. For CSK alone, he has 740 runs in 28 innings, and for Rising Pune Supergiants, he scored 99 runs in four innings against RCB.
• At M Chinnaswamy Stadium: In 11 innings, Dhoni has accumulated 464 runs, including five fifties, at an average of over 90 and a strike rate exceeding 180.

The Significance of the Upcoming Clash

For CSK, this match is crucial for securing their playoff spot. Dhoni’s experience and finishing skills could be the deciding factor in this high-stakes game. A strong performance from him can galvanize the team and boost their chances.

Dhoni’s batting style blends brute force and calculated aggression. Known for his powerful hitting and innovative shot selection, he can dismantle any bowling attack. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to finish games make him a unique asset.

Despite knee troubles, Dhoni has adapted his game to maximize his strengths. By focusing on quick runs and minimizing risky singles, he has continued to be effective in the death overs. His strategic approach to batting remains as sharp as ever.

MS Dhoni batting stats vs RCB

Innings: 32

Runs: 839 runs

Highest Score: 84*

50s: 4

Strike Rate: 140.77

Average: 39.95

Key Bowlers from RCB to Watch Out For

Facing RCB’s bowling attack will be a test. Bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Harshal Patel, known for their pace and variations, will pose a challenge. Dhoni’s ability to counter these bowlers will be critical to CSK’s success.

MS Dhoni record vs RCB bowlers

Dhoni record vs Mohammed Siraj – 51 off 28 balls in 4 innings (6s: 2, 4s: 5, Dots: 5, Dismissed: 0 times)

Dhoni Record vs Yash Dayal – 2 off 2 balls in 1 inning (6s: 0, 4s: 0, Dots: 0, Dismissed: 0 times)

Dhoni Record vs Karn Sharma – 37 off 29 balls in 7 innings (6s: 4, 4s: 1, Dots: 15, Dismissed: 0 times)

Dhoni Record vs Glenn Maxwell – 6 off 3 balls in 2 innings (6s: 0, 4s: 1, Dots: 0, Dismissed: 0 times)

MS Dhoni IPL record in M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Innings: 11

Runs: 464 runs

Highest Score: 84*

50s: 5

6s: 32

4s: 35

Strike Rate: 180.54

Average: 92.80