In a monumental moment for Indian Premier League (IPL) history, MS Dhoni, the iconic captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has etched his name in the record books by becoming the first-ever player to achieve 100 not out innings in the tournament. The historic feat came during match number 57 of IPL 2025 between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on May 7, 2025.

The clash held significant weight for both teams — for CSK, it was about breaking a losing streak, and for KKR, it was a vital game in their race for playoff qualification. After winning the toss, KKR chose to bat first, putting up a competitive total of 179 runs in their 20 overs. Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey, and Andre Russell contributed well with the bat, keeping the CSK bowlers under pressure throughout the first innings.

When it came time to chase, CSK had a disastrous start, with both openers dismissed for ducks. The top order collapsed under pressure, leaving the middle and lower middle order to steady the innings. It was Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, and the evergreen MS Dhoni who stepped up in the crucial chase.

Shivam Dube scored a vital 45 runs, while young South African batter Dewald Brevis top-scored with 52 runs, showcasing composure and class under pressure. In a moment of brilliance and calmness, Urvil Patel also made a quickfire 31 off just 11 balls, which proved pivotal in the final outcome.

However, it was Dhoni’s calm presence at the crease, scoring an unbeaten 17 runs from 18 balls, that ensured CSK crossed the finish line in the penultimate delivery of the match. This two-wicket victory was not just important for CSK’s standings in the league but also marked an unforgettable personal milestone for Dhoni.

With this innings, MS Dhoni now holds the record for the most not outs in IPL history — a staggering 100 times — leaving legends like Ravindra Jadeja (80), Kieron Pollard (52), Dinesh Karthik (50), and David Miller (49) far behind.

MS Dhoni: The Finisher Supreme

Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, MS Dhoni has built a reputation as one of the finest finishers in world cricket. His ability to hold nerves in tight situations and anchor the tail end of innings has been one of the key reasons behind CSK’s five IPL titles. This 100-not-out milestone is not just a statistical achievement — it is a symbol of his unmatched consistency, durability, and presence of mind in the game’s most pressure-filled moments.

Dhoni’s longevity and fitness at age 43 continue to inspire young cricketers. While he no longer bats up the order or plays with the flamboyance of his early years, his understanding of the game and ability to guide his team in crunch moments remains unparalleled.

How the Game Unfolded: CSK vs KKR

After KKR posted 179, CSK were immediately on the back foot due to the loss of early wickets. But rather than crumbling under pressure, the middle-order batters staged a smart counter-attack.

• Shivam Dube’s 45 off 28 balls helped stabilize the innings.

• Dewald Brevis showed maturity beyond his years with a measured 52 off 35 balls.

• Urvil Patel’s explosive 31 off 11 deliveries, including three sixes, provided the momentum that CSK needed.

When the game boiled down to the last two overs, MS Dhoni held his nerve, choosing risk-free cricket and keeping the scoreboard ticking. His unbeaten 17-run knock may not have been flamboyant, but it was incredibly vital, ensuring CSK didn't let the match slip away.

The match-winning boundary came in the final over, with Dhoni at the non-striker’s end, calmly walking off with a raised bat and his trademark smile — a subtle celebration of his 100th not-out milestone.

Implications for Both Teams

For Chennai Super Kings, the win brings them back into playoff contention and restores confidence in a team that was recently struggling with form. The blend of youth and experience seems to be working, and with leaders like Dhoni guiding the side, CSK remains a strong title contender.

For Kolkata Knight Riders, the loss is a significant blow. A win in this game would have brought them closer to playoff qualification. Now, with tougher fixtures ahead, KKR will need to win remaining games and rely on other results to make it into the top four.

A Record for the Ages

Let’s take a quick look at the updated list of players with most not outs in IPL history:

• MS Dhoni – 100 not outs

• Ravindra Jadeja – 80 not outs

• Kieron Pollard – 52 not outs

• Dinesh Karthik – 50 not outs

• David Miller – 49 not outs

This feat places Dhoni in a league of his own, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in IPL history.

What Lies Ahead

As IPL 2025 heads into its final leg, teams are battling not just for wins, but for momentum. With MS Dhoni hitting peak form in crucial moments, CSK will be optimistic about their chances of going all the way once again.

The cricketing world continues to witness the brilliance of MS Dhoni, a legend who has refused to fade away and instead continues to reinvent himself as a master of the game’s nuances. With CSK eyeing their sixth IPL trophy, Dhoni’s 100 not outs may just be the spark the team needs to write another chapter in its glorious history.

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