Following the Chennai Super Kings versus Mumbai Indians IPL 2025 match on Sunday, March 23, Navjot Singh Sindhu said that MS Dhoni might become the first and only cricketer in the IPL to achieve a half-century in the competition at the age of 50.
Dhoni began his 18th IPL season with a win and a magnificent stumping, which helped CSK dismiss MI's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav during the match.
Dhoni did come out to bat, but Rachin Ravindra finished the match with a six in the final over. Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu lauded Dhoni, saying that even at 43, he is the finest and continues to improve.
Sidhu also claimed it was nice to see Dhoni approach Vignesh Puthur, MI's top player on the night, and pat him on the back for his performance.
"At 43 years old, he is still the best. He’s like old wine—getting better with time. Just look at his fitness. A wicketkeeper’s survival depends on it, and Dhoni’s technique, combined with his effortless execution, is remarkable. The respect he has earned over the years is simply astounding. It was the sweetest and most heartwarming sight when he walked up to young Vignesh, patted him on the back, and encouraged him. That kind of motivation is like premium gasoline—it fuels a player to overcome life’s toughest challenges," said Sidhu on Star Sports.
Sidhu stated that Dhoni has won hearts and has nothing more to show. The former cricketer believes that people do not want Dhoni to leave the game just yet.
“Somewhere down the line, Dhoni has won hearts. He has nothing left to prove, yet people don’t want him to leave the game. And I’d bet my life on one thing—he might just be the only cricketer who could still score a half-century for Chennai Super Kings at 50!" said Sidhu.
MS Dhoni will next be in action when CSK plays RCB in Chennai on March 28.
