In a thrilling match at Chepauk, the Chennai Super Kings faced a disappointing 50-run defeat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, leaving both fans and analysts bewildered by the decision to send MS Dhoni in at No. 9 when the game was nearly out of reach.

Chasing a challenging target of 197 runs, CSK struggled from the outset, losing Ruturaj Gaikwad for a duck and finding themselves at 8/2 within the first two overs. Rachin Ravindra (41) and Sam Curran tried to steady the innings, but their inability to keep up with the escalating required run rate only exacerbated CSK's difficulties.

As wickets continued to fall, the sight of Dhoni still waiting in the dugout raised questions among spectators.

When Yash Dayal took two wickets in the 13th over, dismissing Ravindra and Shivam Dube, CSK's chances dwindled significantly. However, instead of Dhoni, Ravichandran Ashwin was sent in to bat, despite the team needing over 16 runs per over. It wasn't until the 18th over, with the match nearly lost, that Dhoni finally made his entrance.

Although he scored 30 runs off 16 balls, including three fours and two sixes, his innings seemed more statistically significant than impactful.

Former cricketers and fans expressed their confusion on social media, questioning the rationale behind CSK's strategy. Had Dhoni batted earlier, his experience and finishing skills might have provided the five-time champions with a better chance. Irfan Pathan, the former Indian all-rounder, criticized the decision, stating, “I will never support Dhoni batting at number 9. It’s not ideal for the team.”

Robin Uthappa, who played alongside Dhoni at CSK and secured an IPL title under his leadership, expressed his criticism regarding the decision. 

"Securing a significant victory for RCB is crucial. A win at the stronghold of Chepauk would greatly enhance their campaign this season. It was illogical for Dhoni to bat at number 9; his earlier arrival could have positively impacted CSK's net run rate in their campaign this year," Uthappa stated.

Dhoni hit two consecutive sixes off Krunal Pandya in the last over of the match, despite the fact that it was already mathematically impossible for CSK to stage a comeback.

Below are the two sixes from the legendary Super Kings player.

Watch:

In a match where momentum plays a crucial role, RCB capitalized on their chances through a disciplined bowling performance. Josh Hazlewood (3/21) established an early advantage, while Dayal (2/18) and Impact Sub Suyash Sharma consistently applied pressure on CSK’s batsmen.

RCB posted a total of 196/7, bolstered by Rajat Patidar’s 51 and a late surge from Tim David (22 off 8), which proved to be too challenging for a CSK team that struggled to find their rhythm.

CSK's first home defeat to RCB since 2008 was undoubtedly disappointing, but the ongoing uncertainty regarding Dhoni’s batting position may weigh more heavily on them than the defeat itself.

Read Also: Krunal Pandya embraces MS Dhoni following his retaliation with two sixes; Rajat Patidar removes his cap prior to their handshake

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