The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has started with a lot of excitement. Teams are giving their best, and fans are enjoying the matches. However, one name is being discussed more than anyone else—Mahendra Singh Dhoni, also known as “Captain Cool.” The former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain is facing criticism from fans. Questions about his fitness and performance are increasing, and many believe this could be his final season. Let’s understand what’s happening with Dhoni in IPL 2025.
CSK’s Struggles in IPL 2025
Chennai Super Kings, one of the most successful IPL teams, are having a tough start in 2025. They have won only one match out of their first three. Fans, who are used to seeing CSK perform well, are disappointed. Many of them are blaming MS Dhoni for the team’s struggles. As a senior player and an experienced leader, every move Dhoni makes is being closely watched.
Why Are Fans Angry with Dhoni?
The turning point was CSK’s match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). CSK lost the game, but what shocked fans the most was Dhoni’s batting position. He came out to bat at number 9. This was unexpected because Dhoni is known for finishing games under pressure. Fans expressed their frustration on social media. One fan tweeted, “Why is the world’s best finisher batting at number 9?” Another said, “This is not the Dhoni we know!”
In IPL 2025, Dhoni’s batting performances have not been impressive. He hasn’t been able to score big runs, and his presence at the crease hasn’t made much of a difference. Fans are upset because they are used to seeing him as a match-winner.
Is Dhoni’s Fitness a Problem?
MS Dhoni is now 43 years old. While his wicketkeeping skills are still sharp, his batting and overall fitness are being questioned. In the past, he had knee surgery after IPL 2023 but made a strong comeback in 2024. However, in 2025, he seems to be struggling. He looks slower on the field, and his power-hitting is not the same as before.
Many fans are wondering if age is finally catching up with him. “He is a legend, but maybe it’s time to retire,” a fan posted on X. Another wrote, “I love Dhoni, but it hurts to see him struggle like this.”
Will Dhoni Retire After IPL 2025?
Retirement rumors have followed Dhoni for years. When he led CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023, many thought he would retire. But he continued playing in 2024, passing the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Now, in 2025, the retirement talk has returned.
His decision to bat at number 9 has made people believe that he is preparing to step away. CSK retained him for ₹4 crore this season, which is a big drop from ₹12 crore in earlier seasons. This could mean that the team values his experience but expects him to take a smaller role.
Dhoni has not given a clear answer about his future. Before IPL 2025, he joked, “I can play for CSK as long as I want. Even if I’m in a wheelchair, they will still take me!” While it was said in humor, it shows his strong bond with CSK. However, with fans getting impatient and his performance declining, the pressure is building. Will he play another season, or will this be his last?
Dhoni’s Legacy: A True Champion
No matter what happens in IPL 2025, MS Dhoni’s legacy is secure. He is the only captain to win all three major ICC trophies—the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the IPL, he has led CSK to five titles, making them one of the most successful teams. His calmness, decision-making, and leadership have earned him the title of “Captain Cool.”
Even now, at 43, Dhoni’s importance goes beyond playing. He is guiding young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube. CSK fans still cheer loudly for him every time he steps onto the field. But as his impact as a player decreases, the question remains—how long will he continue?
What’s Next for Dhoni and CSK?
CSK and Dhoni will now focus on improving their performance in IPL 2025. With just one win so far, they need to find their rhythm soon to stay in the playoff race. Dhoni’s role—whether as a batsman, wicketkeeper, or mentor—will be crucial. Fans are hoping to see him play a match-winning knock once again.
The next few games will be important. If CSK performs well, the retirement talk may slow down. But if the struggles continue, calls for Dhoni to step aside will grow louder. The cricket world is closely watching how this unfolds.
Fans Are Divided: Love vs. Frustration
Dhoni’s fans, also known as “Dhoniacs,” are some of the most passionate in the world. They have supported him throughout his career. But IPL 2025 is testing their patience. Some want him to continue, while others believe he should retire to protect his legacy.
Social media is filled with mixed reactions. One fan posted, “Dhoni at 9 is not right! This hurts his legacy.” Another countered, “He is still the heart of CSK. Give him time!” This shows how much Dhoni means to people and how difficult it is to accept that even legends have their limits.
Dhoni’s IPL 2025 Performance So Far
Let’s look at the stats. In IPL 2025, Dhoni has scored only 16 runs in three matches. He had a strike rate of 145.45 against Rajasthan Royals but hasn’t batted much in other games. His wicketkeeping remains strong, as he made a sharp stumping against Mumbai Indians. However, with the bat, he hasn’t lived up to expectations.
This is very different from IPL 2024, where he scored 161 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 220. His explosive form from last season is missing, adding to retirement speculations.
Dhoni’s Future Beyond Playing
Even if Dhoni retires, his connection with CSK will remain. He is more than just a player—he is a mentor, a brand, and an inspiration. Many believe he will take on a coaching or advisory role with the team.
For now, all eyes are on IPL 2025. Will Dhoni silence the critics with a big innings? Or will this season end with an emotional farewell? Time will tell. But one thing is certain—MS Dhoni’s legacy will always shine in the world of cricket.
