Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni is under scrutiny during the ongoing IPL 2025 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, as questions rise over his late arrival to the crease despite CSK being in deep trouble during their chase.
Former India batting coach and current commentator Sanjay Bangar made a scathing remark during the broadcast, stating,
“The required run rate is above 16, they are 5 wickets down and yet Dhoni has not come to bat. He is embarrassing his fans.”
At the time of Bangar’s comment, CSK were struggling at 81/6 in 13 overs, needing 116 runs off just 42 balls to win the match. Despite the mounting pressure and falling wickets, Dhoni, known for his finishing skills, was held back in the batting order, with Ashwin and Jadeja at the crease.
This statement follows a wave of criticism earlier in the match, with Irfan Pathan also questioning Dhoni’s spot at number 9 in the batting lineup, calling it “not ideal for the team.”
Fans online appear divided, with some defending the former Indian captain’s tactical choices, while others echo Bangar’s concerns, wondering why Dhoni, the experienced campaigner, hasn’t stepped in when his team clearly needs a spark.
With time running out, CSK’s approach—and Dhoni’s role in it—has become the biggest talking point of the night.
