Former Chennai Super Kings batsman Matthew Hayden has reportedly delivered a harsh assessment to his former teammate and current CSK player MS Dhoni, suggesting that his time in cricket has come to an end and that he should acknowledge this reality. Hayden's remarks followed Dhoni's disappointing performance during Chennai's 25-run defeat to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 at the M Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday.

During the match, Dhoni faced criticism for his inability to contribute effectively as Chennai attempted to chase down a target of 184. He managed to score an unbeaten 30 runs off 26 balls, which included one six, one four, and six dot balls.

In response to Dhoni's slow batting pace against Delhi, Hayden, who was providing commentary during the game at Chepauk, suggested that the former Indian captain should consider retiring and transition to commentary. He stated, “(MS) Dhoni should join us in our commentary box after this game. He has lost his touch with the game. It’s over for him. He needs to accept this reality before it becomes too late for CSK,” as reported by cricket.com. However, HT could not independently verify this statement.

Dhoni has had a lackluster start to IPL 2025, with his scores being zero not out (against Mumbai Indians), 30 not out (against RCB), 16 (against Rajasthan Royals), and 30 not out (against Delhi Capitals). He also faced criticism for batting at No. 9 in Chennai's season opener against Bengaluru, but coach Stephen Fleming clarified that due to Dhoni's ongoing knee issues, for which he underwent surgery, CSK has not yet finalized his batting position.

MS Dhoni is 'still going strong'

The attendance of Dhoni's parents, Pan Singh and Devaki Devi, at Chepauk during the match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday led to rumors regarding his potential retirement. Nevertheless, Fleming dismissed these speculations, asserting that the former Chennai captain remains "still going strong."

"My role is not to address those rumors. I have no insight into that matter. I simply enjoy collaborating with him. He is still performing well. I don't even inquire about it anymore; it's you who raises the questions about retirement," Fleming stated during the post-match press conference.

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