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

In the 61st match of IPL 2024, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured a convincing 5-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Sunday.

Match Summary

Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bat first. However, their decision seemed to backfire as they could only score 141 runs and lost five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In response, Chennai Super Kings comfortably chased the target in 18.2 overs, showcasing a dominant performance with the bat.

See Also: Controversy erupts in IPL again due to Jadeja’s field obstruction

Post-Match Celebrations

After the match, the CSK management honored all their players with medals on the field, acknowledging their contributions to the team’s success. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former captain of CSK, was seen interacting with the fans. He distributed T-shirts and tennis balls to the spectators, engaging them in a memorable post-match celebration.

Special Event for Fans

Before the match, CSK had urged their fans to remain in the stadium after the game, hinting at something special planned for them. True to their word, the ground was filled with eager fans after the match concluded. CSK fulfilled its promise by rewarding the loyal spectators with a unique experience, showcasing their gratitude for their unwavering support throughout the season.

Most wins for a team at a venue in IPL
52 – KKR (Kolkata)
52 – MI (Mumbai WS)
50 – CSK (Chennai)*
42 – RCB (Bengaluru)
37 – RR (Jaipur)
**including Super Over results

The victory against Rajasthan Royals solidified CSK’s position in the IPL standings and provided a memorable moment for the fans at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. By this win, CSK has kept itself alive in the race to playoffs.

In a recent IPL match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Harshal Patel found himself at the center of social media controversy after dismissing MS Dhoni for a golden duck.

Harshal Patel’s Dismissal of MS Dhoni

During the match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Harshal Patel executed a well-disguised slower ball that outsmarted MS Dhoni, resulting in the veteran cricketer’s dismissal on the very first delivery he faced.

See Also: MS Dhoni scripts history in the clash against PBKS

Social Media Backlash Against Harshal Patel

Following Dhoni’s dismissal, some fans of the former CSK skipper directed abuse towards Harshal Patel on various social media platforms. Patel’s recent Instagram post was flooded with negative comments, highlighting the extent of backlash he faced from Dhoni supporters.

Harshal Patel Didn’t Celebrate

Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer Harshal Patel didn’t even celebrate Dhoni’s wicket. He revealed the heartwarming reason why he didn’t celebrate MS Dhoni’s wicket. “I have too much respect for him to celebrate if I get him off,” Harshal told the commentators when asked why he didn’t celebrate Dhoni’s dismissal.

Not the Real Cricket Fans!

This incident underscores a broader issue of online abuse in cricket fandom, where players often face criticism and trolling for their on-field performances. It raises questions about the behaviour of certain fans who engage in such negativity, mainly when directed towards players for executing their skills on the field.

In a dramatic turn of events during the 53rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings, MS Dhoni, the legendary cricketer, suffered a rare failure as he was dismissed for a golden duck by Harshal Patel.

Description of MS Dhoni’s Dismissal

Dhoni, known for his calm demeanor and ability to finish matches under pressure, fell victim to a superb delivery by Harshal Patel that shattered his stumps. The silence that descended upon the stadium was palpable as fans watched in disbelief while Patel celebrated his prized scalp. Dhoni’s dismissal for a golden duck marked a rare and unforgettable moment in his illustrious career.

See Also: Is CSK pacer Matheesha Pathirana ruled out of IPL 2024? Updates

Designated wicketkeepers batting at No.9 or below in the IPL
6 times – Mahesh Rawat (RR, 2008-2009)
Twice – Pinal Shah (MI, 2009)
Once – Uday Kaul (PBKS, 2008)
Once – Wriddhiman Saha (SRH, 2021)
Once – MS Dhoni (CSK, 2024)

Fan Reactions to MS Dhoni’s Dismissal

Social media platforms erupted with a flurry of reactions following Dhoni’s dismissal, with fans expressing shock, disappointment, and disbelief. And some fans criticized Dhoni because he came to bat at No. 9. 

Analysis of CSK’s Performance in the Match

Inconsistencies and missed opportunities marred CSK’s batting performance in the match. Despite promising contributions from players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and David Mitchell, the team needed help to build substantial partnerships and post a competitive total. PBKS now need 168 runs to win the game.

Punjab Kings’ Dominance with the Ball

Credit must be given to the Punjab Kings’ bowlers, who put on a stellar performance to restrict CSK to a modest total. Players like Rahul Chahar and Harshal Patel showcased their bowling prowess, consistently picking up crucial wickets and keeping the CSK batters in check.

PBKS bowling
Rahul Chahar & Harshal Patel: 6/47 from 8 overs (ER: 5.875)
Others: 3/119 from 12 overs (ER: 9.91)

The veteran cricketer MS Dhoni recently found himself at the centre of a Twitter storm during the Chennai Super Kings IPL match. Despite hitting a record number of sixes in the 20th over, Dhoni faced criticism for a controversial play involving teammate Daryl Mitchell.

Dhoni’s Controversial Decision

Dhoni’s decision to deny a single to Mitchell during the match became scrutinised. Despite Mitchell’s readiness to take a run, Dhoni’s refusal led to frustration among fans and sparked a debate on social media platforms.

See Also: Absence of Rinku Singh in India’s T20 WC 2024 squad: Know the reason

The incident occurred when Mitchell, after having sprinted to the striker’s end and back, was denied a run by Dhoni. This decision became a focal point for criticism as Dhoni was then run out shortly afterward, having scored only 14 runs off 11 balls.

His approach against the spinners was also questioned, as his strike rate continued to be a concern throughout the tournament. This marked Dhoni’s first dismissal in IPL 2024, highlighting a rare low point in what has been an illustrious career.

Fan Reactions on Social Media

Fans expressed their disappointment and disapproval of Dhoni’s decision on Twitter. One tweet captured the sentiment, expressing sympathy for Mitchell and criticising Dhoni’s actions as unnecessary.

Apart from the controversial play, Dhoni’s overall performance in IPL 2024 has also faced criticism. Concerns over his strike rate and approach against spinners have been raised, marking a rare low point in his otherwise illustrious career.

Impact on Dhoni’s Reputation

As a cricketing icon, Dhoni’s actions on the field often attract significant attention. The incident has led to discussions about Dhoni’s decision-making and its impact on his reputation as a strategic thinker.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, often heralded as one of cricket’s greatest finishers, continues to defy the constraints of age and physical challenges. On April 19, at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, home of the Lucknow Super Giants, Dhoni showcased why he remains a pivotal force in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dhoni’s Performance at Ekana Stadium

With the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) struggling at 141/6 and just 13 balls left in the innings, Dhoni walked into a pressure-cooker situation, a scenario all too familiar yet always thrilling.

See Also: Why is Dhoni not coming to bat early? Fans unhappy

Dhoni’s blistering 28 off nine balls at the Ekana Stadium is yet another chapter in his book of memorable innings. His ability to elevate his game when it matters most keeps his legend growing. At a time, when 160 looked tough, Dhoni made 176 possible with explosive batting. 

Dhoni batting in the 20th over in the IPL
Runs: 772
Balls: 313
SR: 246.64
4s/6s: 53/65
This season: 57 off 16, four fours, six sixes (SR: 356.25)

Breakdown of Dhoni’s Explosive Innings

Facing a robust bowling lineup and a crucial juncture of the game, the stage was set for a spectacle. Dhoni, with a potentially injured knee and minimal match practice this season, was about to remind everyone of his unmatched prowess. Dhoni faced a variety of deliveries, showcasing his skill to adapt and attack. His strategic singles and boundary hits were calculated moves that drove CSK’s score upward dramatically.

Before Dhoni’s arrival at the crease, CSK was teetering towards an underwhelming total. His explosive batting not only stabilized the innings but also set a challenging target for LSG.

Fan and Media Reactions

The social media was abuzz with praises for Dhoni, with fans and pundits lauding his ability to turn the game dramatically. Cricket experts dissected Dhoni’s innings, highlighting his unyielding nature and his crucial role in CSK’s tactical lineup.

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) progresses into its 2024 season, certain elements remain timeless in their appeal. One such constant is Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose presence continues to captivate audiences and stir up fervor among cricket fans.

The Phenomenon of MS Dhoni Mania

Dhoni’s appeal transcends regional boundaries; he is a national icon whose influence is felt across India. This was palpable as he made his way into Lucknow, a city that laid out the red carpet in honor of the cricketing legend.

See Also: Stephen Fleming provides major update on Deepak Chahar’s injury

As the team bus approached the stadium, Dhoni’s fans took over the street, their excitement unmaintainable. The sheer number of supporters underscored the magnetic pull of Dhoni’s presence.

Batting Lower in the Order

In the ongoing match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Dhoni was yet to bat, with CSK five wickets down. His expected batting position at no. 8 caused a stir among fans, leading to a flurry of social media memes expressing their frustration and anticipation.

Fan Reaction on Social Media

The digital space buzzed with activity as fans shared their thoughts and emotions about Dhoni’s late appearance in the batting lineup, highlighting how integral he is to the fan experience.

Dhoni’s Arrival in Lucknow

Upon their arrival, the CSK team, led by the ever-iconic MS Dhoni, was greeted with an electrifying welcome. It was Dhoni’s first visit to the Ekana Cricket Stadium for IPL 2024, and the anticipation had clearly reached a fever pitch.

Dhoni’s Current Form

Heading into the Lucknow match, Dhoni’s form was stellar, having recently scored a quick 20 off 4 balls against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians. His performance has been crucial in key moments, maintaining his reputation as a formidable finisher.

Fan’s Reception at the Airport

A video shared by the IPL captured the moment Dhoni stepped off the plane to cheers and applause from the waiting crowd. The fans showcased their affection, reminiscing their favorite memories of the superstar, creating an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and admiration.

Sanjeev Agarwal, the chief curator at the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium, shared insights into Dhoni’s character. He recalled Dhoni’s approachable and humble nature, and how he has always taken time to interact with the ground staff during his visits.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, often revered as one of cricket’s greatest wicket-keeper-batsmen, continues to dazzle fans with his on-field prowess at the age of 42. As a pivotal player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) this season, Dhoni has been seen not just filling the role but exceeding expectations in both batting and wicket keeping. His veteran presence and strategic acumen have proved invaluable, especially for the newly-appointed captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Overview of Dhoni’s Current Season

Despite the onslaught of time, Dhoni’s commitment to cricket remains unwavering. This season, he has been instrumental in steering CSK through challenging matches, including a critical win against their arch-rivals, Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium.

See Also: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s heartwarming gesture with Ruturaj Gaikwad goes viral

Key Moments from the Recent Match

In a nail-biting finish against MI, Dhoni’s batting was nothing short of spectacular. Entering the fray with just four balls left in the innings, he smashed Hardik Pandya for three consecutive sixes, clinching a dramatic 20-run victory for his team. This performance not only secured the win but also highlighted his unyielding spirit and clutch play.

The Physical Challenge

Recent observations have raised concerns about Dhoni’s physical condition. After the triumph over MI, he was seen limping and taking support from a wall, suggesting that he might be battling a significant knee injury.

Despite these physical challenges, Dhoni has shown remarkable resilience. According to CSK’s bowling consultant, Eric Simmons, Dhoni has bravely managed his knee injury, displaying fortitude by playing through pain and leading by example.

“Everyone else is more interested in his injuries than he is. He’s one of the hardest men I’ve ever come across. I don’t even think we know to what extent he may or may not be in pain. He just carries on and does his thing,” he said after the CSK’s win over MI.

“I’m sure there’s some niggles. He just has that ability to ignore what it is and do what needs to be done. We’re more concerned about his injuries. When I say we, I mean the public (which) is more concerned about his injuries than he is,” Simmons added.

Dhoni’s Role and Impact

Despite being in the twilight years of his career, Dhoni’s ability to deliver explosive performances has not diminished. His brief yet impactful innings are a testament to his enduring skill and mental strength.

As CSK prepares to face Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Sports City, fans and teammates alike hope to see Dhoni at his best. His leadership and strategic insight will be crucial for maintaining their winning streak.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) experienced a rollercoaster ride in the early matches of IPL 2024. After a couple of disappointing defeats, the Yellow Brigade needed a revival. This is where seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja stepped up, injecting life and energy back into the squad.

Ravindra Jadeja’s Role in Reshaping CSK’s Fortunes

Jadeja’s impact on CSK’s performance cannot be overstated. His multifaceted abilities as a bowler, fielder, and occasional pinch hitter with the bat make him a valuable asset for the team. In the midst of CSK’s struggles, Jadeja emerged as a beacon of hope, showcasing his prowess both on and off the field.

When CSK lost their third wicket chasing the 138-run target, MS Dhoni elevated himself in the batting order, delighting the fans once more. As the Chepauk crowd erupted in excitement at the prospect of Dhoni’s batting, Jadeja playfully teased them by briefly stepping ahead of the former skipper, before quickly retracting in a humorous twist of events.

See Also: Ruturaj Gaikwad not ‘worried’ about slow start to IPL 2024

CSK’s Early Setbacks and Remarkable Recovery

CSK’s journey in IPL 2024 saw them stumble initially, facing defeats against formidable opponents. However, the team displayed resilience and determination, bouncing back with consecutive victories. Notably, their triumph against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Chepauk Stadium marked a significant turning point.

Jadeja’s Spectacular Performance at Chepauk

Jadeja’s contribution extended beyond his bowling prowess. His crucial breakthroughs, including the dismissals of Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and Venkatesh Iyer, disrupted KKR’s momentum and tilted the game in CSK’s favor. Additionally, Jadeja’s sharp reflexes were evident as he grabbed two vital catches, further cementing his impact on the outcome. The all-rounder also grabbed two important catches to remain in the spotlight throughout. For his 3/18 in four overs, Jadeja was rightfully rewarded as the player of the match where CSK won by seven wickets.

“Always enjoy my bowling on these kind of tracks. Was just looking to bowl in good areas. I’ve practiced a lot here – if you bowl in good areas, it helps you. Takes time for visiting team to settle down and plan something. Difficult for them to come here and identify the surface. We know the conditions very well,” said Jadeja after grabbing Player of the Match award.

It was Dhoni’s Plan

Tushar Deshpande, at the post-match interaction, revealed it was Dhoni’s idea to tease the crowd. “Dhoni bhai instructed Jaddu bhai, ‘I will go for batting but you just act like you are going,” Deshpande said while making no effort to hide his grin.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a cornerstone of cricketing excellence since its inception in 2008. Over the years, this money-rich T20 franchise league has not only showcased the talents of budding cricketers but also provided a platform for seasoned veterans to extend their careers.

As the 2024 edition of the IPL approaches, speculation mounts about the potential swansongs of celebrated players who have graced the tournament with their brilliance. Now, for many players, this IPL 2024 might be the last time they are featuring in this cash-rich league. Take a look at 5 players who might not feature in the next IPL season.

MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

Despite advancing age and concerns about fitness, MS Dhoni has defied expectations with his enduring presence in the IPL. After winning his fifth IPL title in 2023, Dhoni’s future in the tournament remains uncertain as he approaches the age of 43.

See Also: How much do the IPL captains earn? Find it out

After winning his fifth IPL in 2023, many expected him to announce his retirement, seeing he was not the same player throughout the season, but Dhoni made no such announcement. Speculations abound that IPL 2024 might mark Dhoni’s final hurrah, with fans bracing themselves for the possibility of bidding farewell to the iconic former Indian captain. 

Dhoni’s contributions to Chennai Super Kings and his indelible impact on the league make his potential retirement a momentous event in IPL history. This year, he handed over the captaincy of CSK to Ruturaj Gaikwad. In July 2024, MS Dhoni will be 43. Being a wicket-keeper and one about to reach 43, Dhoni’s appearance in the 2025 season looks improbable.

Amit Mishra (Lucknow SuperGiants)

Amit Mishra, the seasoned spinner, made a remarkable comeback to the IPL in 2023 at the age of 40, signing with the Lucknow Super Giants. With 166 wickets in 154 IPL games, Mishra’s illustrious career has been characterized by his guile and mastery over spin bowling.

The spinner stood out with his crafty bowling and wicket-taking prowess and has been in contention for the prestigious purple cap for more seasons than not during his long spell in the T20 league. However, citing his advanced age, he could be on his last legs as well.

Renowned as the “Hat-trick Man,” Mishra etched his name in IPL history by claiming three hat-tricks in the 2008, 2011, and 2012 seasons. His ability to outsmart batters with his crafty bowling has been instrumental in his team’s success over the years.

David Warner (Delhi Capitals)

David Warner, the highest-scoring overseas batter in IPL history, could be nearing the twilight of his IPL career. With a string of stellar performances and a cult following in the Indian subcontinent, Warner’s potential retirement would mark the end of an era in T20 cricket.

The maverick opener is likely to play his final T20 World Cup this year, and the southpaw, who has created a cult following in the Indian subcontinent with his brilliant batting and off-the-field antics, could also be inching towards retirement from the IPL.

As Warner prepares to play his final T20 World Cup, speculation mounts about his retirement from the IPL. With close to 6400 runs to his name, Warner’s legacy as one of the IPL’s most iconic batters is firmly established.

Ishant Sharma (Delhi Capitals)

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma, who missed the 2022 season, returned to the IPL in 2023 with Delhi Capitals. 35 years old, Sharma acknowledges that IPL 2024 could be his final season, marking the end of a distinguished career.

Ishant made his IPL debut in 2008. He has played 105 matches to date in his IPL career, and he took 86 wickets, with an average of 35.24, conceding nearly 8.20 runs per over with a best individual figure of 5/12. In the IPL Auction 2024, the Delhi franchise acquired the services of Ishant Sharma for Rs 50.00 Lac. The 35-year-old is not part of the Indian team anymore, and he also knows that this could be his last season in the IPL.

Shikhar Dhawan (Punjab Kings)

Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, will be playing his 17th straight season in the IPL. Leading Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, Dhawan’s illustrious career may be nearing its conclusion. Retirement looms on the horizon, and with his growing age, there are very few chances that he will continue playing in 2025.

PBKS bought him in a 1pl 2022 Auction for 8.25 Crores. Dhawan, a consistent run-getter in the competition, is the second-highest run-getter in the IPL’s history. With a wealth of experience under his belt and a large number of runs against his name, the swashbuckling left-hander will be crucial to PBKS’ fortunes.

He made his IPL debut in 2008. Shikhar Dhawan has played 221 matches to date in his IPL career and has scored 6,755 runs, with an average of 35.37. He has also slammed 2 centuries and 51 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 106* runs. Shikhar Dhawan has hit 766 fours and 152 sixes in his IPL career. He has played for six different franchises in his IPL career, but the 39-year-old is more likely to retire after the IPL in 2024.