MS Dhoni is currently featuring in the 18th edition of IPL for CSK. The 43-year-old was signed as an uncapped player ahead of the 2025 season. He returned to the leadership role after regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out midway through the tournament due to injury.
However, Dhoni failed to turn CSK’s fortunes around as the franchise became the first team to be knocked out of the playoffs race.
Recently, former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody shared his assessment of Dhoni in the IPL 2025, saying he does not see the same spark in the veteran wicketkeeper that was visible in the last few editions.
Dhoni’s utility this season has been a topic of debate. On two occasions, he has come out to bat at No.9, drawing backlash from the fans, experts and former cricketers. Moreover, the legendary finisher has also been unable to finish off games apart from the clash against Lucknow Super Giants.
“Every team is a mirror of their leaders, and he is such a significant leader, and has been for so long. We all have a fire inside of us, and at times we need to recognise when that is starting to flicker, and if not, go out," Moody said on ESPN Cricinfo's 'TimeOut' show.
"I just don’t know whether what I am seeing is correct, but certainly my observation is that the spark is not there that I have seen in previous years,” he added.
After CSK’s win against KKR earlier this month, MS Dhoni stated that he still has 6-8 months to decide whether he’ll play the next IPL season or not.
"A lot of them (crowd) don’t know when it is going to be my last time, so they want to come and see me play. There is no escaping the fact that I am in the last phase of my career. After this IPL gets over, I have to work hard for another 6-8 months to see if my body can take this pressure," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.
"Nothing to decide now but the love and affection I have seen is excellent,” he added.
In the IPL 2025 season, Dhoni has amassed 180 runs at an average of 25.71 and a strike rate of 140.63.
CSK have only two matches remaining --- one against Rajasthan Royals (May 20) and Gujarat Titans (May 25) and the five-time champions will look to avoid finishing at the bottom of the points table.
