In a heart-stopping moment during the 22nd match of IPL 2025, MS Dhoni narrowly escaped a run-out scare that could have ended Chennai Super Kings’ hopes in their high-voltage chase against Punjab Kings. The incident unfolded in the 18th over bowled by Lockie Ferguson, with CSK needing a daunting 220 for victory.
On ball 17.3, Ferguson delivered a very full, leg-stump delivery that Dhoni missed while attempting a powerful heave. The ball struck his back leg, prompting a strong LBW appeal from Prabhsimran Singh behind the stumps. However, umpire Abhijit Bhattacharya ruled it not out, with replays confirming umpire’s call on hitting.
But what almost cost CSK was Dhoni’s casual running between the wickets. As the ball trickled to short third man, Marcus Stoinis swooped in with a direct-hit attempt. Dhoni, assuming no chance of a run-out, was seen jogging instead of sprinting. Replays revealed he was just inches short when the ball missed the stumps.
The missed direct-hit proved crucial. At the time, Dhoni was on 9 and has since powered his way to 20 off 9 balls, striking at over 222. His survival has kept CSK alive in the chase, now needing 35 runs off 8 balls with Ravindra Jadeja at the other end.
With pressure mounting and the clock ticking, Dhoni’s escape could be the turning point in a chase that continues to thrill fans across the globe.
