MS Dhoni (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)
NEW DELHI: Gujarat Titans’ chances of securing a top-two finish in IPL 2025 took a significant hit after an 83-run defeat to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. CSK rode on fifties from Devon Conway and Dewald Brevis to post a commanding total, which the Titans failed to chase down. Despite the heavy loss, GT remain at the top of the table with 18 points from 14 matches, although their Net Run Rate took a considerable blow.To retain a top-two position, Gujarat Titans will now have to hope that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17 points) lose their final league game against Lucknow Super Kings.That scenario is crucial as the winner between Mumbai Indians (16 points) and Punjab Kings (17) in their head-to-head clash could leapfrog GT on the table.During the high-stakes clash against CSK, a rare sight emerged as Chennai skipper MS Dhoni lost his composure on the field.The incident unfolded after the 10th over when Shivam Dube conceded 18 runs, with GT batters Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan building momentum and dispatching the bowlers around the park.As the over ended, Dhoni was visibly agitated and was seen yelling at his fielders. As per visuals shared by Star Sports, he appeared frustrated with his team not executing his field placements, particularly upset with bowlers Matheesha Pathirana and Dube.
Taking swift action, Dhoni handed the ball to Ravindra Jadeja, who made an immediate impact. Jadeja dismissed Shahrukh Khan, who mistimed a shot and was caught by Pathirana at short third man.Just three balls later, Jadeja struck again, removing Sudharsan, who edged one to Dube at backward point. The commentators were quick to highlight Dhoni’s decisive captaincy and praised his tactical brilliance.In his trademark enigmatic style, MS Dhoni left everyone guessing about his future in the IPL. Speaking after the win, the CSK icon said he plans to spend time riding his bikes in Ranchi before making a decision on whether to return next season. CSK’s inconsistent run this season has led to speculation that the team may undergo a revamp—potentially without Dhoni, even in a limited role.“It depends. I have 4-5 months to decide, there’s no hurry. Need to keep my body fit. You have to be at your best,” Dhoni said after CSK’s emphatic win.At 43, Dhoni pushed himself down the batting order throughout the campaign, getting limited chances to influence the game with the bat.Naturally, questions around his retirement resurfaced after CSK’s final league match. But Dhoni made it clear that lack of performance won’t dictate his decision.“If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22. I will go back to Ranchi, enjoy a few bike rides. I am not saying I am done, not saying I am coming back. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide,” he said.
Get IPL 2025 match schedules, squads, points table, and live scores for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
