3 Matches Where MS Dhoni Can Bat Up The Order In IPL 2025

Jatin

MS Dhoni will play for CSK in IPL 2025 [Source: @IPL/x.com]MS Dhoni will play for CSK in IPL 2025 [Source: @IPL/x.com]

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MS Dhoni walking out to bat early? Now that’s a sight CSK fans would pay good money to see! Over the years, the man has made finishing an art form, waiting till the last few balls to leave his mark.

With the IPL 2025 schedule finally out, CSK supporters are once again buzzing with excitement. But with Ruturaj Gaikwad now leading the charge and Dhoni possibly playing his last IPL season, there’s one question on everyone's mind: will Thala give us one last glimpse of his dominant self up the order?

While he has embraced the finisher’s role in recent years, there are still a few matches where he could step up, face more deliveries and turn back the clock. Let’s break down three such games where MS Dhoni can bat up the order.

1. CSK vs Delhi Capitals on April 5 in Chennai

Afternoon game? Check. Home crowd? Check. A tired bowling attack under the blazing Chennai sun? Double check. The afternoon matches tend to be a slow-burn affair, where stroke-making gets tougher as the game progresses.

If CSK finds themselves in a comfortable position, this could be the perfect moment for Dhoni to walk in early, knock the spinners around and launch a few into the stands. After all, Chennai’s crowd has been craving those massive sixes from their beloved Thala.


2. CSK vs Punjab Kings on April 30 in Chennai

By this time in the season, CSK would ideally have a settled XI and a clearer playoff picture. This game against Shreyas Iyer led Punjab at Chepauk could be a golden opportunity for Dhoni to dust off the rust and take on the pacers in the middle overs. 

With PBKS’ bowling attack featuring some solid pacers like Arshdeep Singh, Vyshak Vijay Kumar and Lockie Ferguson, an early entry from Dhoni could allow him to dictate terms rather than waiting till the last over heroics. And let’s not forget the fact that Dhoni loves playing against Punjab Kings. There’s history there and he might just fancy reminding them who’s boss by coming up the order and taking charge.

3. Gujarat Titans vs CSK on May 18 in Ahmedabad

Final league game, afternoon clash and a potential knockout-like scenario, this match has all the ingredients for a Dhoni special. If CSK has already secured a playoff spot, this could be a game where he takes the license to free his arms, play some vintage shots and get into rhythm before the playoffs.

If not, Dhoni could come up and make sure to use all his experience and help CSK qualify for the playoffs. Narendra Modi Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for power-hitters and Dhoni rolling back the years with a few signature helicopter shots against Shubman Gill's GT? Now that’s a script every CSK fan wants to see unfold.