MS Dhoni's position in the Chennai Super Kings lineup has once again faced criticism following his inability to lead CSK to victory in the IPL 2025 match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. Dhoni finished the match unbeaten on 30 while chasing a target of 184 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, but Chennai ultimately lost by 25 runs. This marked Chennai's third consecutive defeat this season and their second straight loss at home.

In the match against Delhi, Dhoni came to bat at No. 7 with the team struggling at 74 for five. They required 110 runs from the remaining 56 balls, with the required run rate just below 12. Partnering with Vijay Shankar, who scored a half-century, Dhoni contributed to an 84-run partnership; however, Chennai fell short once again in their pursuit of a target exceeding 180 runs.

Following the loss, Dhoni faced renewed criticism, with fans and analysts alike suggesting it might be time for him to retire. On ESPNCricinfo, former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer was asked if it was time for Dhoni to step aside for a younger player, to which he responded, "Yes, if he is not captaining the team then watching him (bat) like this is somewhat painful."

Dhoni set to announce IPL retirement?

The attendance of Dhoni's parents, Pan Singh and Devaki Devi, at the Chepauk during the match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday fueled speculation regarding his potential retirement. However, Chennai coach Stephen Fleming refuted the rumors concerning the former captain's imminent departure from the game.

"No, it's not my responsibility to clarify that. I have no information on the matter. I'm simply enjoying my time working with him. He continues to perform well. I don't even inquire about it anymore; it's you all who bring up the topic of retirement," Fleming stated during the post-match press conference.

Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, Dhoni has been immensely popular among Chennai fans, who affectionately refer to him as "Thala," meaning "leader" in Tamil. He has guided Chennai to an impressive five IPL titles, tying the record, with the most recent victory occurring in 2023, after which he stepped down from the captaincy prior to last year's tournament.

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