MS Dhoni delivered a standout performance, earning the Player of the Match title and aiding the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in breaking their winless run in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). The five-time champions secured their second victory of the season by overcoming the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by five wickets on Monday. Dhoni, batting right-handed, scored an unbeaten 26 runs off just 11 balls, leading CSK to successfully chase the target with three balls remaining.

This marked Dhoni's first Player of the Match award in the IPL in five years, with his last recognition dating back to 2019. During the post-match presentation, he humbly acknowledged that there were several other players who could have been deserving of the award instead of him.

Dhoni formed an unbroken partnership of 57 runs for the sixth wicket, steering CSK to victory in the final over. Dube, batting left-handed, contributed an unbeaten 43 runs from 37 balls.

"Even today, I wondered why I was receiving the award. I believe Noor Ahmad bowled exceptionally well. The new ball bowling, along with the combined efforts of Noor and Jaddu, who bowled four or five overs together, were crucial moments where we excelled," Dhoni remarked during the post-match presentation.

In preparation for the match against the Lucknow Super Giants, CSK made two adjustments to their playing XI, introducing Jamie Overton and Shaik Rasheed in place of Devon Conway and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Regarding the decision to omit Ashwin, Dhoni explained, "We were placing excessive pressure on Ash. He needed to bowl two overs on pitches that were not offering much assistance, while the batsmen were freely expressing themselves. We opted for changes that would allow us to have more bowlers capable of performing well in the initial six overs," Dhoni stated.

"Additionally, if any of the fast bowlers were to concede runs, we have Noor available to step in for an over. I believe this creates a more effective bowling attack, providing greater flexibility for the captain," he concluded.

'Good to win a game'

Dhoni expressed his joy at finally ending the winless streak in the current 18th edition of the T20 tournament. In the match against LSG, he also achieved the milestone of becoming the first wicketkeeper in IPL history to record over 200 dismissals.

"Winning a game is always satisfying, especially in a tournament like this where success is paramount. Unfortunately, previous matches did not go in our favor, and there can be numerous reasons for that. Therefore, securing this victory is significant for us. It boosts the team's confidence and allows us to focus on areas that need improvement. We all understand that when things aren't going well in cricket, it can be quite challenging," Dhoni remarked.

"It was a difficult match, but I am pleased to have emerged victorious, and I hope this will provide us with some much-needed momentum," he continued.

Despite this victory over the Lucknow Super Giants, CSK still occupies the last position on the points table. The team is set to face the Mumbai Indians next at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 20, 2025.

Read Also: Bishnoi Expresses Desire to Compete Against MS Dhoni, Supports Skipper's Strategy

"Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!"