MS Dhoni, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), found himself in the eye of a storm after batting at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 match played at Chepauk Stadium. The decision to send Dhoni so low in the batting order drew sharp criticism from fans and cricket experts, despite his late cameo of 30 not out off 16 balls.

Dhoni's Surprising Move Raises Eyebrows

Chasing a challenging target of 197 runs, CSK found themselves in deep trouble at 26/3 in the powerplay. As wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals, many expected Dhoni to promote himself up the order to stabilize the innings and guide CSK’s chase. However, to the disbelief of fans and experts, Dhoni walked in at No. 9, behind Ravichandran Ashwin and other all-rounders. By the time he entered the crease, the match was virtually out of CSK’s grasp, and his knock only reduced the margin of defeat.

Experts Slam Dhoni’s Decision

Several former cricketers voiced their disappointment over Dhoni’s decision. Aakash Chopra, Robin Uthappa, and Irfan Pathan took to social media and television discussions to express their views on the matter.

• Aakash Chopra remarked:
  “CSK fans really love the sight of Dhoni walking into the middle and smashing sixes. But CSK fans must also want their team to win. And with the kind of hitting form that Dhoni has shown off-late, it’s only logical to expect him to give himself enough time to win games for CSK. Ashwin ahead of Dhoni vs RCB didn’t make sense.”

• Robin Uthappa echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Dhoni’s decision hurt CSK’s Net Run Rate (NRR) and the overall chances of securing a playoff spot:
  “Important win for RCB. A win at the fortress in Chepauk will be a huge boost in their campaign this year. Dhoni coming at number 9 didn’t make sense at all. Him coming earlier could have helped CSK’s NRR in their campaign this year.”

• Irfan Pathan, another seasoned commentator, was blunt in his assessment:
  “I will never be in favour of Dhoni batting at number 9. Not ideal for the team.”

Fans Express Disappointment on Social Media

Dhoni’s move to bat so low in the order also triggered a wave of disappointment among CSK fans on social media platforms like Twitter/X. While many lauded his unbeaten 30-run effort, they expressed dismay that Dhoni’s presence earlier in the innings could have potentially changed the outcome of the game.

Some of the reactions included:

• “Why on earth did Dhoni bat after Ashwin? He should have been in after Dube. Lost the match there itself.”

• “MSD at 9? That’s too low. He had the power to turn things around. Disappointed as a CSK fan.”

• “Dhoni smashed 30 off 16 but came too late! He needed to face more balls. Poor decision by the CSK think tank.”

CSK's Struggles and the Impact on IPL 2025 Campaign

CSK’s decision to send Dhoni so low in the batting order has raised concerns about the team’s strategy in critical matches. With the Required Run Rate (RRR) soaring during the chase, an early entry by Dhoni could have potentially stabilized the innings and bridged the gap between the target and the batting performance.

While Dhoni’s late arrival reduced the margin of defeat, it didn’t impact the overall outcome of the match. CSK’s Net Run Rate (NRR), which plays a crucial role in the IPL points table, could have been positively affected had Dhoni entered the crease earlier.

A Pattern of Cautious Batting

This is not the first time Dhoni’s batting position has come under scrutiny. In previous seasons, Dhoni had often promoted himself in crunch situations, taking on the responsibility of finishing matches. However, the decision to come at No. 9 in a crucial game has led to speculation about whether Dhoni’s role in CSK’s batting order is undergoing a tactical shift or if it was a one-off strategic error.

Dhoni’s IPL Legacy and Fans’ Expectations

As one of the most beloved cricketers in India, Dhoni’s finishing prowess and leadership have won him millions of fans over the years. However, his decision to stay back in the dugout until the final overs left even the most ardent CSK supporters questioning the strategy. Fans expect Dhoni to lead from the front and play a more prominent role in critical situations.

What Lies Ahead for CSK?

With IPL 2025 reaching its midpoint, CSK will need to re-evaluate their batting strategy and ensure that Dhoni is utilized effectively in pressure situations. The team’s next matches will be closely watched as fans and analysts await any changes in CSK’s batting order and approach in upcoming fixtures.

As Dhoni’s decision to bat at No. 9 continues to stir debate, CSK’s performance in the coming matches will determine whether this controversial move was a tactical misstep or a calculated gamble that didn’t pay off.

The Current active IPO are Aten Papers & Foam Limited, Infonative Solutions Limited,Spinaroo Commercial Limited,Retaggio Industries Limited.

The Closed IPOs are  Identixweb Limited, ATC Energies System Limited, Shri Ahimsa Naturals Limited, Desco Infratech Limited.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.