MS Dhoni’s Cricketing Genius Shines Again — This Time from the Dressing Room
They say some legends never fade, and MS Dhoni is living proof of that. In a high-stakes IPL 2025 clash between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals, Dhoni reminded the cricketing world that instinct and experience can outshine even the most advanced tech. And this time, he didn’t even need to be on the field.
In the third over of CSK’s innings, a seemingly ordinary delivery turned into a moment that fans will remember for years. Mitchell Starc, known for his fierce inswinging deliveries, fired one in at Vijay Shankar. The ball tailed in sharply and struck Shankar on the boot. There was a faint sound — perhaps a bottom edge? Delhi keeper Abishek Porel certainly thought so. He signaled to Starc that it hit the bat. The appeal was half-hearted, and captain Axar Patel opted against a review.
But far away in the Chennai dressing room, MS Dhoni had already made up his mind — that was out. Cameras captured the iconic moment when Dhoni, cool and composed as ever, gestured with quiet confidence that Shankar was plumb in front. Moments later, replays confirmed what Thala already knew: the ball had struck pad before bat. It was a missed opportunity, and Delhi Capitals would live to regret it.
A Glimpse of Cricketing Brilliance
While the umpire and on-field players hesitated, it took one look from Dhoni — seated in the dressing room — to assess the truth. The “Dhoni Review System,” a phrase that fans lovingly coined years ago during his captaincy days, had just struck again. And it was as accurate as ever.
Even Starc couldn’t help but smile when he saw Dhoni’s reaction on the big screen. It was a light-hearted moment amid intense cricket, but it spoke volumes about Dhoni’s undying cricket IQ. Fans erupted on social media, celebrating the moment with memes, tweets, and throwbacks.
“DRS 2.0 — Dhoni Review System from the Sofa!”
“Axar should’ve asked Dhoni instead of Porel!”
“Even when he’s not playing, he’s still the captain in spirit.”
Aftermath and Repercussions
The error proved costly for Delhi. Had they reviewed, CSK would have been three down in the Powerplay, and the pressure would’ve mounted early. As the innings progressed, the impact of that missed opportunity was evident.
Adding to the drama, KL Rahul later took over wicketkeeping duties — possibly signaling a rethink from the team management about Porel’s judgment under pressure.
Interestingly, this wasn’t the only talking point. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s continued struggle against left-arm pace was exposed again. Starc, who had already dismissed one batsman, nearly sent Gaikwad packing as well. With 12 dismissals to left-arm pace at an average of just 22.91, Gaikwad remains vulnerable in the early overs — something oppositions will no doubt continue to target.
A Legacy Beyond Stats
MS Dhoni might no longer be CSK’s captain or first-choice keeper, but his presence looms large. From guiding youngsters in the nets to influencing match moments from the sidelines, his impact remains unmatched. That moment — a subtle gesture from the dressing room — perfectly encapsulates why he’s regarded not just as a former great, but a living, breathing master of the game.
For fans, this was more than just a funny incident. It was a reminder of Dhoni’s timeless cricketing instinct. Even as the game evolves with ultra-slow-motion replays and snickometers, sometimes all you need is a pair of eyes that have seen it all — and a mind that processes the game faster than any machine.
Long Live the Dhoni Review System
As IPL 2025 continues to throw up thrilling contests, one constant remains — MS Dhoni’s unmatched intuition and influence. Whether on the field or off it, the “Dhoni Review System” continues to steal the spotlight, proving that some instincts can’t be taught, only revered.
