MS Dhoni [Source: @Cricket960215/X]
MS Dhoni’s razor-sharp decision-making, famously dubbed the “Dhoni Review System” (DRS), fumbled during Chennai Super Kings’ high-stakes IPL 2025 clash against Lucknow Super Giants.
With CSK languishing at the bottom of the table, Dhoni’s tactical masterstroke to review a contentious LBW appeal against Nicholas Pooran electrified fans but for the wrong reasons.
The Dhoni Review System Misses The Mark?
Desperate to salvage their campaign, CSK dropped veteran R Ashwin and opted to field first against LSG’s explosive top order. The gamble paid early dividends, Aiden Markram fell to Khaleel Ahmed’s pace, courtesy of Rahul Tripathi’s stunning catch.
But all eyes were on Pooran, the Orange Cap holder, whose fiery form threatened to derail Chennai’s plans—until MS Dhoni intervened. In the 4th over’s final delivery, Anshul Kamboj’s inswinger thudded into Pooran’s pads. While the umpire remained unmoved, Kamboj’s persistent appeal caught Dhoni’s attention.
Though Dhoni was initially not interested with the review, Kamboj convinced him to take one which subtly marked Dhoni's inability to judge the delivery, thus storming of the 'Exposed' trend on Twitter.
The CSK skipper though, later, wearing his trademark grin, signalled for a review. Replays revealed the ball would’ve crashed into the leg stump, sending Pooran back for 12.
Social media erupted, with fans doubting 'Thala's' intuitions and judgement decisions. As it seems now, the credit should have gone to Kamboj, as because of his convincing power and appeal, Dhoni went for the DRS.
CSK In Control After Opting To Bowl First
Meanwhile, for the unaware, Chennai Super Kings opted to bowl first against Lucknow Super Giants and their bowlers responded with disciplined spells to keep the hosts in check.
LSG lost Aiden Markram early to Khaleel Ahmed, followed by the big scalp of Nicholas Pooran, who was dismissed for 8 after a successful DRS call by MS Dhoni. Ravindra Jadeja struck twice, removing Mitchell Marsh and Ayush Badoni, while Anshul Kamboj chipped in with Pooran’s wicket. By the end of the 15th over, LSG stood at 117/4, with skipper Rishabh Pant anchoring the innings.
Despite having a power-packed top order, LSG struggled to gain momentum, as CSK bowlers bowled tight lines and lengths. Jadeja's control in the middle overs and Noor Ahmad’s economical spell ensured LSG couldn't break free.
With Abdul Samad and Pant at the crease, LSG will be hoping for a strong finish in the final overs, while CSK aim to restrict the total and boost their chances of a comeback win.