Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener and current commentator Matthew Hayden didn’t hold back while sharing his thoughts on MS Dhoni’s performance during the IPL 2025 clash between CSK and Delhi Capitals (DC). The ex-CSK player, who was part of the franchise’s 2010 title-winning squad, openly questioned Dhoni’s ability to finish games and suggested that it might be time for the veteran to retire.
Dhoni scored an unbeaten 30 off 26 balls in the match, which included just one four and a six. Despite being at the crease during a crucial phase of the chase, Dhoni and partner Vijay Shankar failed to accelerate as the required run rate kept climbing. This lack of urgency did not sit well with Hayden, who expressed his frustration in the commentary box.
“Dhoni should join us in the commentary box after this game. He has lost the cricket. It’s over for him. He should accept this fact until it’s too late for CSK,” Hayden reportedly said during the broadcast. However, this comment has not been officially verified.
Dhoni’s Struggles in IPL 2025
So far in the season, MS Dhoni hasn’t made much of an impact with the bat. He has scored 76 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 138.18, with his highest score being 30*. However, many of these runs have come in situations where CSK were already in a losing position.
In CSK’s only win this season—against Mumbai Indians—Dhoni remained unbeaten on 0 from two deliveries. Against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he struck 30* off 16 balls when CSK needed an improbable 98 runs from 28 deliveries. In the clash with Rajasthan Royals, he came in needing 54 off 25 and managed 16 from 11. Most recently, against DC, Dhoni and Shankar came together with the team requiring 110 from 56. Despite being the last recognized batting pair, they failed to show any urgency, and Dhoni’s 30* off 26 came in a slow, ineffective knock.
Hayden’s comments have reignited the debate over Dhoni’s role in the team and whether the legendary finisher should hang up his boots. As CSK struggles in the 2025 campaign, questions are growing louder about Dhoni’s future in the game.
