In a high-stakes IPL match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), CSK faced a tough 50-run defeat at MA Chidambaram Stadium. What followed was a wave of criticism, especially from former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Manoj Tiwary. He raised concerns over the decision of MS Dhoni’s batting position. Tiwary strongly criticized the CSK coaching staff, accusing them of not having the courage to ask Dhoni to bat higher in the order, particularly when CSK needed him the most.
This article breaks down Tiwary’s criticism, looks at why Dhoni’s position in the batting order was questioned, and also explores Virender Sehwag’s perspective on the matter. With the introduction of the ‘Impact Player’ rule and Dhoni’s recent record, there is more to this discussion than just a loss.
Tiwary Criticizes CSK’s Decision to Hold Dhoni Back
Manoj Tiwary couldn’t hide his confusion and frustration after CSK’s loss to RCB. According to Tiwary, it was unreasonable for a player like MS Dhoni, who has the ability to change the game in the final overs, to be sent in at No. 9. Tiwary remarked that Dhoni’s arrival at the crease came too late, especially with only 28 balls remaining in the chase, making it difficult for him to make a significant impact.
Tiwary expressed disbelief at the fact that CSK, knowing Dhoni’s capabilities, did not promote him up the order. “It’s beyond my comprehension how a batter like MS Dhoni, who can remain unbeaten after scoring 30 off 16 balls, isn’t sent up the order. Aren’t you playing to win?” he questioned during an interview with Cricbuzz. For Tiwary, the decision to keep Dhoni lower in the batting order reflected poorly on the team’s strategy.
The former KKR batter also pointed fingers at the CSK coaching staff, accusing them of lacking the courage to ask Dhoni to bat higher. Tiwary believes that once Dhoni makes up his mind, the decision is final, and no one in the team seems to challenge him.
Sehwag’s Perspective: Staying Unfazed
While Tiwary was puzzled by the decision, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag remained calm and unshaken. Sehwag pointed out that the decision for Dhoni to come in around the 17th or 18th over was part of a pattern, one that the team had been following throughout the season. “This is a decision he and his team have made that he will only face a set number of deliveries,” Sehwag explained.
Sehwag believed that even if Dhoni had batted earlier, the outcome might not have been different, considering how well RCB was playing. He suggested that the decision to keep Dhoni at No. 9 was a part of the team’s broader strategy and that the match was already tilted in RCB’s favor by the time Dhoni came in to bat.
The Impact of the ‘Impact Player’ Rule on Dhoni’s Batting Position
The introduction of the ‘Impact Player’ rule in IPL 2025 has further complicated the debate over Dhoni’s batting position. This rule allows teams to bring in an additional player during the match to either replace an existing player or add more flexibility to their strategy. The rule has meant that Dhoni, who is often seen as a finisher in the later stages of an innings, now has to bat even further down the order.
This was only the second time Dhoni batted at No. 9. The first instance occurred in the previous IPL season, when he faced a golden duck against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Despite this, Dhoni’s ability to remain calm and focused under pressure remains unmatched.
Dhoni’s Record-Breaking Achievement at Chepauk
Despite CSK’s loss to RCB, MS Dhoni had a personal milestone to celebrate. In the game, Dhoni became CSK’s all-time leading run-scorer in IPL history. With a career total of 4,699 runs, he surpassed the previous record held by Suresh Raina, who had 4,687 runs. Dhoni reached this milestone in his 204th innings, cementing his legacy as one of the most important players in IPL history.
Though CSK lost the match by 50 runs, Dhoni’s record-breaking achievement at Chepauk was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing performance. His consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure situations have made him a true legend of the game.
The Dhoni Debate – A Mix of Strategy and Tradition
The ongoing debate over MS Dhoni’s batting position is not just about one game or one decision. It is about strategy, the impact of the new rules, and Dhoni’s status as a key player for CSK. While Manoj Tiwary’s criticism highlighted some valid concerns, former cricketers like Sehwag emphasized the broader picture, suggesting that even if Dhoni had batted earlier, the outcome might not have been different.
CSK’s loss to RCB serves as a reminder that cricket is not just about individual brilliance but also about team strategy. As Dhoni continues to lead CSK with both his batting and leadership, the decisions regarding his role in the team will always spark discussions. Regardless of where he bats, his place in the history of IPL is undoubtedly secured, and his ability to rise to the occasion, even at the age of 43, remains a key factor in CSK’s continued success.