Kolkata (West Bengal) [India]: Despite being officially eliminated from the IPL 2025 playoff race, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showcased their fighting spirit with a memorable two-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
He doesn’t chase runs. He wins games. 🫡
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 7, 2025
MS Dhoni adds another not out to his legend by guiding #CSK over the line 💛#TATAIPL | #KKRvCSK | @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/9oB3QfJtdz
MS Dhoni, playing yet another masterclass in the finisher’s role, calmly guided CSK to their third win of the season, sealing the game with a six in the final over and a signature composed presence at the crease.
Post-match, Dhoni gave a candid reflection on what has been a challenging campaign.
“Few? This is just the third game we have won (laughs),” he quipped when asked about the emotions behind the win, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Acknowledging the struggles CSK have faced, Dhoni stressed the importance of staying practical:
“You could get emotional about it, talk about the pride factor, but you have to be practical about it,” he said. “We’re trying to figure out where our players fit best – it’s about getting answers now.”
With CSK out of playoff contention, the skipper said the focus has shifted to giving game time to fringe players and assessing their mental strength under pressure.
Also SEE : Brevis, Dube Shine As CSK Stun KKR In Last-Over Thriller At Eden Gardens
“These are the players that are part of our squad right now, so you give them a chance, see how they react. It is the approach, the mental toughness that you want to check.”
Dhoni reserved praise for Dewald Brevis, whose 25-ball 52 shifted the momentum in CSK’s favor.
“Thanks to Brevis, he gave us that luxury (to take it deep)… It was holding for the spinners, but for the pacers, it was not that great.”
On the growing tension during the run chase, Dhoni shared:
“I was the last batter, so the tension becomes a lot (if I get out)… Shivam (Dube) got a couple of sixes, that helped bring the run-rate down.”
The 42-year-old also acknowledged the unwavering fan support, hinting once again that this could be the twilight of his storied career:
“Not to forget I am 42 – I have played a long time… A lot of them don’t know when it is going to be my last time, so they want to come and see me play.”
When asked if this season would be his swan song, Dhoni remained ambiguous but realistic:
“After this IPL, I’ll have to work hard for another 6-8 months to see if my body can take the pressure. Nothing to decide now, but the love and affection I’ve seen is excellent.”