CSK vs LSG: MS Dhoni's blistering knock leads to victory; fans clap back at 'Retire Thala' trolls

MS Dhoni, the legendary captain of Chennai Super Kings, broke the losing streak and led his team to a much-needed victory against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday night. Stepping back into captaincy after Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury, Dhoni proved once again why he's hailed as one of the greats.

Dhoni had been brutally trolled earlier this season for his lackluster performances, especially as Chennai failed to win any matches. However, he silenced critics with a vintage knock that reignited hope among CSK fans.

He came out to bat in the 16th over to thunderous applause from the "Yellow Army" at Ekana Stadium. In no time, Dhoni thrilled the crowd by smashing two straight fours in his first over. Then, in the 17th, he stunned everyone with a one-handed six off Shardul Thakur. Dhoni remained unbeaten on 26* off just 11 balls, helping CSK chase down the target in 19.3 overs with five wickets in hand.

This win also marked a milestone for the Dhoni-Jadeja duo, who became the third pair in IPL history to complete nine stumpings together — the most by any bowler-wicketkeeper combination in the league.

For LSG, skipper Rishabh Pant top-scored with a fighting 63 off 49 balls, helping his side post 166/7 in their 20 overs.

Earlier, fans and netizens had called for Dhoni's retirement due to his poor form, arguing that he should step aside for younger players. But his powerful performance against LSG changed the narrative. Dhoni's supporters rallied behind him, celebrating the iconic cricketer's resilience and class under pressure.

After the win, Rishabh Pant and MS Dhoni hugged.

The friendly banter between MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant continued on the field during the toss at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Monday. As the two came face to face, both were seen smiling, sharing a light moment. Murali Karthik, who was on broadcasting duty, aptly remarked, "This Guru-Shishya saga continues!"

While posing for a pre-match photo, Dhoni playfully bumped his shoulder against Pant's and tried to push him. Pant responded with a big smile and hugged the CSK skipper, capturing the camaraderie between the two wicketkeeper-captains.

'Why are you giving me the award?': MS Dhoni on winning IPL Player of the Match after six years

"Even today, I was like, why are they giving me the award? I feel Noor Ahmad bowled well. The new ball bowling and in between when Noor and Jaddu, you know, they bowled like four or five overs together. Those were the two spans, I think, where we did very well," said Dhoni at the post-match presentation.