Mahendra Singh Dhoni, at the age of 43, continues to captivate fans and commentators alike during the ongoing IPL 2025 season with his on-field presence. The iconic wicketkeeper-batter, participating this season as an uncapped player for CSK, has struggled to uplift his team in recent matches, as the five-time champions find themselves on a four-match losing streak. Although Dhoni has accumulated 103 runs in five matches this season, it is clear that his ability to finish games has diminished.

On Tuesday, Dhoni stepped onto the field when his team was at 151/5 in 15.5 overs, chasing a target of 220 runs against the Punjab Kings. With 69 runs required from 25 balls, the pressure mounted on Dhoni to deliver. He managed to show some resilience with a 27-run contribution but ultimately could not lead his team to victory.

Nonetheless, his arrival at the crease was met with an enthusiastic response from the crowd, accompanied by fervent chants, which also energized the commentators.

Sidhu-Rayudu welcome Dhoni in middle from commentary box

Navjot Singh Sidhu remarked upon his arrival during the commentary, “He is descending the stairs with a clear intent evident in his stride.” 

Ambati Rayudu, frequently criticized by fans for his perceived favoritism towards CSK and MS Dhoni, became animated on the microphone, stating, “MS Dhoni is emerging with a sword, not a bat. The sword will be brandished tonight, and Dhoni's sword will indeed be wielded.”

Sidhu responded to Rayudu's choice of words regarding Dhoni, quipping, "It sounds as if he is not coming to play cricket but to engage in battle."

Rayudu continued his admiration for his former captain, saying, “Observe his gait. In the previous match, he entered with a sense of calm, but tonight, even during the warm-up, he removed the black wrap he typically wears on his knee. This evening, we will witness a fearless Dhoni.”

Sidhu later shared a clip of the commentary on his social media, taking another jab at Rayudu's remarks about Dhoni's entrance, writing, “Is Dhoni here to play cricket, Guru? Or to fight a war? …. #IPL”

In the course of his 27-run innings, Dhoni hit one four and three sixes during his brief 12-ball appearance before being dismissed on the first delivery of the final over, a moment that nearly secured victory for Punjab. Needing 28 runs from the last over, CSK could only muster 9 runs.

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