MS Dhoni's Finishing Heroics Seal Thrilling Win for CSK Against LSG
In a nail-biting encounter between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), MS Dhoni reminded the cricket world of his unmatched finishing prowess, leading CSK to a dramatic 5-wicket victory in Match 30 of IPL 2025. Chasing a target of 167, Dhoni walked in with CSK needing 56 runs off the last 30 balls and guided his side to victory with a stunning 26* off just 11 balls.
LSG, batting first, put up 166/7 in their 20 overs, with skipper Rishabh Pant top-scoring with 63 runs. Despite the solid start, the CSK bowlers kept things under control to restrict LSG to a chaseable total. IPL debutant Shaik Rasheed gave CSK early momentum with an eye-catching 27 off 19 balls, laced with six boundaries. However, the team stumbled in the middle overs, finding themselves at 111/5 by the end of the 15th over.
Then entered MS Dhoni. The veteran skipper joined Shivam Dube at the crease and instantly shifted the pressure back onto the opposition. Dhoni struck back-to-back boundaries off Avesh Khan in the 16th over, injecting life into the CSK innings. Inspired by his captain, Dube accelerated as well, finishing with a composed yet powerful 43* off 37 deliveries.
The second-to-last over was a game-changer. Dube and Dhoni capitalized on poor fielding and a no-ball, hammering Shardul Thakur for 16 runs. The duo reached their fifty-run stand in that same over. With only five required in the final over, CSK calmly wrapped things up in three balls, with Dube hitting the winning four.
Dhoni’s finishing touch, including four boundaries and a six, earned him a staggering strike rate of 236.36. His captaincy, composure, and tactical brilliance were on full display. This victory marked CSK’s second win of the season and ended their five-match losing streak. It was also Dhoni's first win since returning as captain, following a heavy loss against KKR.
Youngster Shaik Rasheed also earned praise for his fearless approach on debut, setting a strong foundation in the powerplay. Hailing from Guntur, Rasheed is already known for his contribution to India’s U19 T20 World Cup win in 2022, and now looks set to be a future CSK star.
