Key Moments from MS Dhoni’s Most Underrated IPL Knocks
2024-09-02
As MS Dhoni celebrates his 43rd birthday on July 7, his illustrious career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) stands as a testament to his extraordinary leadership and batting prowess. With 133 wins in 226 matches and a record total of 5,243 runs at an impressive average of 39.13, Dhoni has cemented his legacy as one of the most successful captains in IPL history. Yet, among his numerous match-winning innings, there are some knocks that often fly under the radar. Let’s delve into five of Dhoni’s most underrated IPL innings that showcased his knack for turning games around under pressure.
63* off 45 Against Mumbai Indians, 2013
The IPL 2013 final saw CSK up against Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens. Chasing 149, CSK were in dire straits at 36/5 in the seventh over. Dhoni’s 63* off 45 balls, including two sixes and a four, was a masterclass in resilience. His innings, despite the challenging circumstances and tight bowling from Mumbai, ensured CSK narrowed the losing margin to 23 runs. Dhoni’s performance in this high-stakes final epitomized his ability to deliver under pressure, even though CSK fell short of the title.
70* off 40 Against Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2011
22/4, Dhoni’s resolute 70* off 40 balls, featuring six sixes and three fours, was instrumental in setting a target of 129. Despite a remarkable innings from Chris Gayle that led RCB to an eight-wicket victory, Dhoni’s knock remains one of the finest examples of his ability to anchor an innings and deliver under pressure.
58* off 37 Against Deccan Chargers, 2009
On May 4, 2009, CSK took on the Chargers, with Murali Vijay and Matthew Hayden setting a solid foundation with a 61-run opening stand. Dhoni’s innings of 58* off 37 balls, including six fours and a six, added the finishing touch to the innings. His partnership with Suresh Raina, which yielded 54 runs, helped CSK post a formidable 178. Dhoni’s innings was pivotal in ensuring CSK’s dominance, as they later restricted the Chargers to 100.
42 off 29 Against Deccan Chargers, 2010
During the fifth game of IPL 2010, CSK faced Deccan Chargers in Chennai. Chasing a daunting target of 190, CSK were in trouble at 32/4 when Dhoni arrived at the crease. His aggressive yet controlled knock of 42 off 29 balls was crucial in keeping CSK's hopes alive, even though they eventually lost the match by 59 runs. Dhoni’s innings was a testament to his fighting spirit and ability to perform under pressure.
43* off 35 Against Mumbai Indians, 2008
In the 36th match of IPL 2008, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. After Mumbai's bowlers reduced CSK to a precarious 46/4, MS Dhoni stepped in at No. 6. and crafted a valuable 43 off 35 balls, including six boundaries and a six. Partnering with Subramaniam Badrinath, who scored 53, Dhoni guided CSK to a defendable 156. Despite Sanath Jayasuriya’s explosive innings of 114* off 48 balls leading Mumbai to victory, Dhoni’s innings was crucial in setting up a competitive target.
