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Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon and current commentator Matthew Hayden didn’t hold back while evaluating MS Dhoni’s performance during CSK’s loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Matthew Hayden’s harsh assessment of CSK legend MS Dhoni
Dhoni, who came in to bat at No.7, played an uncharacteristically slow knock – remaining unbeaten on 30 off 26 balls. The innings included just one boundary and a solitary six, and although he managed to build an 84-run stand with Vijay Shankar for the sixth wicket, CSK still fell significantly short of the 192-run target. This marked CSK’s third loss in just four matches this season, raising concerns about the team’s middle-order depth and Dhoni’s role in the side. While the partnership provided some resistance, the lack of urgency in Dhoni’s batting meant the required rate spiraled beyond reach by the time the final overs arrived.
Dhoni’s inability to accelerate in the crucial middle and death overs raised serious concerns about his role in the current side. Hayden, who was on commentary duty during the match, was candid in his critique, suggesting that the time has come for Dhoni to walk away from the game.
“MS Dhoni should join us in the commentary box after this game. He has lost the cricket. It’s over for him. He should accept this fact before it becomes too late for CSK,” Hayden said.
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A glorious legacy at risk? Dhoni’s numbers still command respect
Despite his current struggles, Dhoni remains one of the most decorated players in IPL history. With 5,289 runs to his name, he is the sixth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. His career average stands at an impressive 39.17 with a strike rate of over 137, complemented by 24 half-centuries and a highest score of 84. However, Dhoni’s current IPL 2025 numbers paint a different picture. His scores in the season so far- 0 not out, 30 not out, 16, and 30 not out – indicate an inability to accelerate during crunch moments, something that was once his trademark. His legendary status remains intact, but his declining on-field impact has sparked widespread debate.
