Cricket has often resembled the traits of military service and has followed traits of discipline, courage, and commitment. There are various cricketers from all around the world who thrilled on the field and in military uniforms for their country. These individuals, some past and some still living, balanced the enormous demands of their professional work in defending their country as well as standing up and representing their country in the field of international sport. 

Relatively speaking, nothing shines brighter than one of the game's greats, Sir Donald Bradman, who served in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. England's Hedley Verity was one of World War II's casualties; a talented spin bowler and gifted cricketer, he died in combat during that same conflict. India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who carries the honorary title of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, provides insight into how well this country enjoys his role in bringing honor to the game and his country. 

For various reasons, the military is often a discreet cultivation ground for cricketers developing social capital, which is plainly displayed in the field. In Pakistan, cricketers like Majid Khan or Imran Khan had military family ties, whereas in Sri Lanka, cricketers such as Ajantha Mendis actively served. While their accounts are like each other as their own ambitions were being pursued, within them, they also represent the character of a timeless story of selfless public service for national pride.

When Duty and Sport are Shown to be Synergistic

The hard work behind trying to balance military responsibilities with the demands of professional cricket is remarkable. These athletes train in extreme conditions and mentally push themselves physically to grow their capacity to handle pressure - an advantage when playing any high-pressure match. They develop a safe and calm demeanor, which must be associated with being taught to think strategically, stay calm, and lead others in the sport and in their chosen military roles.

Also Read: Will number one team on points table crowned as IPL 2025 winner?

For cricketers, the combination of professionalism in sport and selfless acts of valor are tied together. Their lives challenge generations to ask themselves whether their patriotism can be exhibited in more than one way. Whether it is saluting while in uniform or raising a bat after scoring a century, they serve as reminders that the ultimate contribution to a nation sometimes comes wearing both boots and spikes.

South African young batsman Dewald Brevis needs no introduction now. At present, he is playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings, led by MS Dhoni. The Protea batter's performance has been excellent in all the matches where he got a chance.

The 57th match of the tournament was played yesterday (7 May 2025) between Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings at Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata. In this match, Brevis scored a half-century while batting at number six. After the match, he shared some interesting thoughts, which are now being widely discussed.

Dewald Brevis, popularly known as 'Baby AB' in the cricket world, has called MS Dhoni a legend. The 22-year-old cricketer said, "MS Dhoni is a legendary cricketer, and I am grateful to learn from him. I want to be a player who can win matches for the team just like MS Dhoni. He has done it for many years."

Also Read -IPL 2025 Points Table, Purple cap and Orange cap after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Match No 57

Brevis is performing well in the 18th season of the IPL. Until the time of writing this news, he has played four matches in the tournament. So far, he has scored 126 runs in four innings at an average of 31.50. During this time, he has also scored a half-century. In IPL 2025, he is batting with an impressive strike rate of 163.63.

Dewald Brevis said, "MS Dhoni is a legend. I'm grateful to learn from him, I want to be the guy who can take the team over the line just like MS. He's done it for many years". pic.twitter.com/FdKW2tlhPA

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 8, 2025

Dewald Brevis's IPL Career

Talking about Brevis’s overall IPL career, he has played 14 matches so far. In 14 innings, he has scored 356 runs at an average of 25.43. He has one half-century to his name in the tournament.

As fans around the globe reflect on Rohit Sharma's illustrious and successful Test cricket career, they are remembering the great moments he created across his career, as well as myriad, remarkable statistics. Overall, Sharma leaves behind a legacy that many will remember, whether it be the culture of the team he built based on resilience and future-thinking leadership, or the simple belief that winning a cricket World Cup was possible. Under Sharma, Team India grew from near misses and crushing heartbreaks, all the way to raising the trophies and standing on the podium as champions. 
 
The best moment of Rohit’s international cricket career is arguably at the helm of the T20 World Cup title campaign in 2024. Prior to that moment, India had just missed out on winning multiple ICC tournaments, whether it was the ODI. World Cup, and decisive 1-day tournaments, or similar campaigns that produced nothing more than further anticipation, the team of Roh the captain was finally able to put an end to that itch, and after many losses under multiple captains, Rohit was able to do the near impossible, and go all the way to stand atop of world cricket.

Read More: BCCI drops bomb! After Rohit Sharma another senior cricketer on retirement radar

On June 29, 2024, at Kensington Oval in Barbados, India faced South Africa in the T20 World Cup final. Dominant throughout the tournament, India carried their momentum into the title clash. Batting first, they posted a competitive total of 176/7, powered by a classy 76 from opener Virat Kohli and a vital 47-run knock from Axar Patel in the middle order. This performance, coupled with Rohit's captaincy, sealed India’s long-awaited world title and cemented his legacy as one of India's greatest leaders in white-ball cricket.

Watch the video;

Dhoni texted Rohit Sharma after CT win and did a video call too ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sxyzBBF7uD

— Dev 🇮🇳 (@time__square) May 8, 2025

My heart rate was up: MS Dhoni

Adding to the emotional resonance of the victory, former captain MS Dhoni extended his heartfelt congratulations to the team. In a social media post, Dhoni expressed his excitement and pride, stating, "My heart rate was up, well done on being calm, having the self-belief and doing what you guys did. From all the Indians back home and everywhere in the world, a big thank you for bringing the World Cup home." Rohit Sharma responded with deep appreciation, acknowledging Dhoni's immense contributions to Indian cricket and expressing gratitude for his support. 

This exchange between two of India's most successful captains highlighted the continuity and camaraderie within the team, underscoring the collective effort that has propelled Indian cricket to new heights.

A gathering crowd outside the Eden Gardens has to return high and dry, as there was no MS Dhoni in the training session. The Chennai Super Kings skipper missed CSK's routine net practice for two days.

The five-time IPL-winning captain, nearing 44, is still a crowd-puller no matter in which stadium a match is scheduled for. People will gather to see a glimpse of 'Thala.' When the cricket fans of Kolkata saw the yellow clan without him, they felt disappointed. Chennai Super Kings will take on the defending champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata's iconic stadium on May 7.

It will be a prestigious match for both sides, as both of the teams with a glorious past are struggling throughout the ongoing IPL 2025. In a must-win situation, the absence of Dhoni sparked speculations among cricket fans. People are curious to know about his current status.

Read More: IPL 2025, MI vs GT: Why drs is not available today's match?

MS Dhoni to miss KKR vs CSK match? 

Ahead of the match, the CSK bowling coach clarified the situation and talked about the availability of MSD for the match against KKR. CSK's bowling coach Eric Simons has informed, "With regards to MS, he knows his situation very well; he knows where he is in terms of his preparations. He always works very hard at the beginning of a tournament and then allows himself to taper off because he gets himself in a space where he is ready. So, no issues. He will play tomorrow."

MS Dhoni, one of the most successful captains in international and franchise cricket, had to face a lot of criticism from cricket experts and netizens in recent times for his alleged slow batting and the poor form of the team. The multiple trophy-winning cricketer, at this stage, has nothing new to prove but perhaps needs to justify his legacy. 

In the dynamic world of social media, some personalities never fail to grab the limelight. X (formerly Twitter) has turned into the virtual town square where news begins, opinions are forged, and trends are created. The most recent figures by TweetBlinderX reveal that April 2025 witnessed a vibrant blend of political leaders, cricket heroes, and Bollywood stars being the most discussed Indian personalities.

Top by posts done by Indians on the 1st through April 30th of 2025, here's who trended by sparking talks in and across India as of these weeks.

1. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi)

The Indian Prime Minister remains at the forefront not only of the government but also of the internet debate. Whether it's big-ticket policy declarations, international diplomacy, or street rallies in the run-up to the 2024 general elections, Narendra Modi is always the name that figures in online discussions.
His social media campaign, coupled with his keen presence and orations, keeps him at the forefront of public awareness.

2. MS Dhoni (@msdhoni)

The legendary cricketer and former Indian captain remains a favorite among netizens. Despite having stepped away from international cricket, his involvement with the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) keeps him in the limelight. April, being a peak IPL season, saw fans constantly sharing clips, tributes, and reactions to Dhoni’s gameplay and captaincy decisions.

3. Virat Kohli (@imVkohli)

Another cricket legend, Virat Kohli is still evoking emotions on and off the ground. His imposing performances, moments with fans, and unscripted moments with wife Anushka Sharma put him among the most followed and discussed personalities. He fell back in the ranks a bit, suggesting maybe a more even-out month than recent high-octane ones.

4. Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45)

Rohit Sharma held on to his fourth spot, supported by his performances as the captain of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Sharma's performance under pressure and consistent delivery have earned him a favorite among cricket fans. April witnessed widespread appreciation and criticism of his IPL strategy, generating further discussions online.

5. Allu Arjun (@alluarjun)

The "Pushpa" star maintained his meteoric ascent in national popularity, transcending regional limits. With news of his forthcoming film ventures and his squeaky-clean public image, Allu Arjun's fan following continues to be among the most fervent and active on X. His social media chatter witnessed a significant increase in April.

6. Amit Shah (@AmitShah)

The Home Minister and one of the key BJP strategists returned to the upper echelons as political activity in the nation picks up. With elections in the states in the works and matters related to national policy gaining momentum, Shah's words and appearances are receiving intense online attention, particularly from political observers and analysts.

7. Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath)

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister had a consistent presence on X. The BJP's national plan and his aggressive style of governance made Adityanath's name come up frequently in political discourse, particularly as preparations for 2025 elections started taking shape.

8. Pawan Kalyan (@PawanKalyan)

Pawan Kalyan, balancing both politics and cinema career, is one of the major subjects of interest. His political party, Janasena, and his presence as a movie star have maintained him at center stage of internet political debate in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. April saw him experience a fall from the eighth to the tenth spot in engagement.

9. Vijay (@actorvijay)

Tamil superstar Vijay fell a few notches in April, but his power is still enormous. With fan clubs including his name on their daily trending lists and people waiting eagerly for what he does next, he still wields digital power, even on low-key months.

10. Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)

Bollywood action hero Akshay Kumar rounds out the top 10. With his constant stream of movie releases, endorsement deals, and charity work, Kumar continues to be a staple in public discourse. Though he wasn't one of the most viral names this month, his consistent participation meant he kept his place.

ALSO SEE:[WATCH] Shikhar Dhawan drops musical bombshell with 'BESOS' – Internet in Love!

Social media trends show cricket and politics still dominate

Politics and Cricket Rule: Political leaders occupy five of the top ten positions and three of them are cricketers, clearly indicating that these two fields still influence Indian debate on social media.

South Indian Cinema's Emerging Power: Allu Arjun and Vijay's presence indicates the emerging clout of South Indian cinema that now demands pan-Indian focus.

Star Power Endures: Even as there are generational changes and new stars arise, veteran figures such as Dhoni, Kohli, and Akshay Kumar continue to be deeply entrenched in public popularity.

As India progresses further into the IPL season and heads toward key political deadlines, May 2025 is set to witness a re-shuffling of this list. What is certain, though, is that the virtual world presents an instant mirror to India's entertainment, political, and cultural pulse.

Two cricket legends, Shaun Pollock and Adam Gilchrist, have chosen the 'Greatest IPL XI.' The line-up they have chosen is a mixture of active and former IPL players. They have selected the players according to IPL overseas players rules: 7 Indian cricketers and 4 foreign cricketers. The list of greatest IPL players starts with the former West Indies international Chris Gayle. The surprise entry in the list is Suresh Raina. The middle-order former cricketer gifted multiple memorable innings with Team India and Chennai Super Kings, though the left-handed batter remains underrated, but Pollock and Gilchrist made no mistake in choosing him for the greatest IPL XI.

Another surprise pick for the XI is Yuzvendra Chahal, another underrated talent in the world of cricket. The spinner has a record number of wickets in his bag with a handsome strike rate, combined with Sunil Narine. The countryman of Chris Gayle has changed his playing style over the years. Narine started his cricket career as a mystery spinner, and now he is a fearless all-rounder who opens the innings for Kolkata Knight Riders. But the duo chose him as a spinner. Notably, five-time IPL-winning captain Rohit Sharma is not mentioned in the greatest IPL XI; they chose MS Dhoni, another captain who achieved 5 IPL trophies, to be in charge of leading the greatest IPL XI as well. 

Notable stats of the XI players the list contains:

Chris Gayle

Played a total of 142 matches for 3 IPL teams, scored 4,965 runs with a strike rate of near 149. 175* was his highest score in an IPL innings. 

Virat Kohli

The iconic figure of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has played 263 IPL matches, scored 8509 runs, including a 113*-run innings, and has a strike rate of 132.60.

Suresh Raina

Participated in 205 IPL games, scored 5528 runs, with a 136.73 strike rate. An unbeaten 100 was his best IPL knock. 

Read More: Top five best moments from India vs Pakistan matches

AB de Villiers

The former South Africa international scored a total of 5162 runs in his IPL career by playing 184 matches; 133 not out was his highest individual score in an innings, with a strike rate of 151.68. 

Suryakumar Yadav

The batter who has played 161 IPL matches and bagged 4069 runs with a 148.07 strike rate, was in the highest form when he scored an unbeaten 103.

MS Dhoni

The captain and wicketkeeper of the team has so far played 275 IPL matches, scored 5406 runs, and has a strike rate of 137.83. 

Ravindra Jadeja

Theced all-rounder has so far scored 3219 runs in 251 runs and claimed 167 wickets. 

Sunil Narine

The stalwart of the T20 format, has completed 1723 runs with the bat and taken 190 wickets in 187 IPL games.

Jasprit Bumrah

One of the most impactful pacers of modern cricket, he played 140 matches to claim 176 wickets.

Lasith Malinga

One of the most lethal bowlers in his prime days. The former Sri Lankan legend has played 122 IPL matches and clinched 170 wickets. 

Yuzvendra Chahal

The right-handed bowler has grabbed 219 wickets in 171 IPL matches. 

Adam Gilchrist & Shaun Pollock pick the "Greatest IPL XI":

Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, AB de Villiers, Suryakumar Yadav, MS Dhoni (C), Ravindra Jadeja, Sunil Narine, Jasprit Bumrah, Lasith Malinga, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

The history of cricket between India and Pakistan is one of intense emotions and competition, a level of drama that often transcends sport. The match-ups between the two teams are not only highly technical events of expertise that have happened on the pitch, but they create multiple moments, in the case of cricket, that will be revered for generations. Below are the top five moments from these competitions.

1. Virat Kohli's Melbourne Miracle, T20 World Cup 2022

The T20 World Cup (group stage) match between India and Pakistan at Melbourne in 2022 was riveting, though surely not the best for the Indian fans up to the final ball of the match. After Pakistan put up a score of 159/8, India found themselves at 31/4. However, Virat Kohli stepped onto the field, and on the back of his 82 off 53 deliveries, India came through with a victory. The moment that sealed the estranged victory was when Kohli hit two sixes off Haris Rauf, whose second six was what some are calling a "genius" lofted cover drive. After hitting six runs to win the match off the last ball, Kohli's dramatic finishing and the battle that preceded it became one of the best-remembered moments of his illustrious career.

2. Misbah's Scoop, Sreesanth's Catch, T20 World Cup Final 2007

The T20 World Cup Final in Johannesburg against Pakistan for India was tense for all cricket fans, with the climax being off the last ball of the match. After taking itself to 157, Pakistan was required to chase down 13 runs off the final over, with MS Dhoni making a gamble to give the over to Joginder Sharma. Amidst the drama of Misbah-ul-Haq pulling off a scoop shot of a full toss to lone fielder Sreesanth, India, by five runs, defended their score to claim the finals victory and the title of T20 ICC World Champions in history's first T20 World Championship.

See Also: 5 Times MS Dhoni Lost His Cool on the Cricket Field

3. Miandad's Last-Ball Six, Austral-Asia Cup 1986

During the 1986 Sharjah final, Pakistan had to withstand an unlikely chase of India's 245. With four required off the final ball, Javed Miandad hammered a full toss by Chetan Sharma over the field for a six, giving his team a remarkable win. Miandad's smile and Pakistan's celebration shattered Indian hearts, making this one of the all-time greatest moments of clutch heroism.

4. Prasad's Retort to Sohail, World Cup 1996

In the 1996 World Cup quarterfinal match in Bengaluru, Aamer Sohail's passionate boundary and insult to Venkatesh Prasad ignited drama. Prasad's subsequent ball knocked out Sohail's off-stump, and celebrations erupted. The victory of India by 39 runs was driven by this passionate exchange, an indicator of the rivalry's raw passion.

5. Tendulkar's Uppercut, World Cup 2003

Pursuing 273 in Centurion, Sachin Tendulkar's 98 off 75 deliveries and a stunning uppercut six off Shoaib Akhtar tore apart Pakistan's pace attack. India's six-wicket victory revealed Tendulkar's brilliance, inspiring a generation.

These moments define the India-Pakistan rivalry—where talent, guts, and drama meet, creating an eternal legacy.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni is one of those rare breeds in the cricket realm who has a calm demeanor on and off the field. Time and again, his composed presence even during intense clashes has been crucial in dictating a contest in his team’s favour. However, there are rare instances when even Captain Cool lost his calm, and let us deep dive into the top five such moments.

Dhoni’s Outrage on the umpires vs RR

During one of Chennai Super Kings’ encounters against the Rajasthan Royals, the bowling end’s umpire, Ulhas Ghande raised his arm to signal a no-ball for elevation that was overruled by square leg umpire Bruce Oxenford. As per the rules, it was the duty of the square leg umpire to signal a wide or no-ball. But seeing Gandhe make a mess out of the decision, costing a denial in the free-hit during a crucial stage of the game, Dhoni stormed into the field and was vividly seen arguing with the officials. 

Dhoni’s actions prompted the umpires to draw the Rajasthan players in the middle of the conversation. Even Ben Stokes of the Royals tried to stop Dhoni, who was seething over the bizarre call. However, seeing a cricketer gush onto the pitch from the dugout over a controversial call was something rare in cricket.

Dhoni’s heated exchange with Mitchell Johnson

During an ODI between India and Australia in 2009, MS Dhoni pushed a length delivery from Mitchell Johnson towards long off and scampered for a single at the start of the 28th over. However, Johnson tried to hurry behind the stumps to welcome a throw from the deep but was struck by Dhoni outta nowhere. The wicketkeeper-batter hurried for the run, and the bowler came in his way, resulting in a collision that didn’t quite go well with Johnson. Although known for his calm demeanour, Dhoni didn’t hold back, responding with a wild stare at the Aussie quick. 

See Also: Players to hit 5 Sixes in an Over in IPL History

Dhoni reprimanded Shami

During India’s tour to New Zealand in 2014, the Men in Blue were blown away by Brendon McCullum’s triple hundred in Wellington. In that match, Shami was seen bowling a sharp bumper at the end of a session, which didn’t go well for captain Dhoni. 

While leaving the field, the wicketkeeper-batter happened to rebuke the Bengal pacer on bowling that bouncer and following it up with a lie. Shami expressed that the ball slipped off his hands. But the Jharkhand-bred star replied in a strict tone that he has seen enough cricketers in his cricket career, and Shami should not try to fool him.

“Dekh beta, bohot log aaye mere saamne. Bohot log khel ke chale gaye jhut mat bol. Bete tumhare senior hain tumhare captain hain hum. Ye bewakoof kisi aur ko banana.” Shami expressed during an Instagram live with Manoj Tiwari during the COVID-19 pandemic era. 

Dhoni’s abuse at Manish Pandey

One of the famous incidents of Dhoni losing his calm was during the second T20I against South Africa in 2018. While both batters were well set in the crease, trying to put the opposition on the back foot, Dhoni’s abuse of Pandey was one of the breakout moments that surfaced on social media. 

During the second half  of  India’s innings, Pandey rotated the strike and was looking elsewhere when Dhoni yelled, ‘Oye!.’ He tried to call the Karnataka-based batter for the second time, citing “B*dk idhar dekhle, udhar dekh raha hain, thoda bata, bowler kidhar daal raha hain kidhar nahi daal raha hain?” (Look here, give me insights on where the bowler is bowling.)

While it may sound like a very normal conversation, Dhoni was vividly angry during his statement, sparking a social media frenzy.

Raging on Moeen Ali

One of the recent incidents that involved an angry Dhoni was a match between CSK and RCB in 2023. During the dying moments of the contest, Moeen Ali failed an opportunity to run out Suyash Prabhudessai, who was sprinting at the danger end. The two RCB batters were involved in a miscommunication and were seen stranded at the bowler’s end simultaneously. This is when Moeen’s erratic throw cost CSK the runout. Right after, Dhoni was fuming in anger and shared a word or two with the English all-rounder.

Also READ: Who scored fastest fifty in IPL? Check out top 10 fastest half-centuries in history of IPL

When umpire Daryl Harper provoked Dhoni

During India's tour to the West Indies in 2011, Praveen Kumar was banned by umpire Daryl Harper after repeatedly stepping into the danger zone of the pitch. This led to the umpire banning the pacer, who was making his Test debut in Jamaica. This didn't go well with the then-captain Dhoni, who went up to the umpire and suggested he be a little 'lenient' with the debutant. Post-match, Dhoni expressed that the match could've been over early if not for Harper's interventions. As a result, the umpire demanded a sanction for Dhoni, which didn't happen as the series progressed. 

“If the correct decisions were made, the game would have finished much earlier, and I would have been in the hotel by now,” Dhoni said during the post-match press conference.

As per numerous reports from the cricketing realm, Vijay Shankar is set to fill the shoes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The former Indian captain voiced a cryptic message during the toss of CSK’s latest encounter against the Punjab Kings, hinting at a new twist in his cricket career.

During the toss against PBKS, cricket commentator Danny Morrison, inquired of Dhoni about his potential IPL future, to which the 43-year-old shared an unpleasant reply for the majority of the CSK fans. Not only did he express his uncertainty over the next year’s participation, but also on the next match’s availability. Certainly, his words spread around social media, causing a frenzy. 

“I don't know, I'm coming for the next game (laughs),” Dhoni said. 

See more: IPL 2025: CSK vs RCB – Player Battles to Watch Out For

CSK’s New Captain

As per reports from a close source of CSK management, Vijay Shankar is set to lead the five-time champions for their contest against RCB. With four games left in the bank, the all-rounder might captain the side for the remaining games too. Previously, Dhoni filled the shoes of regular Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was ruled out of the tourney with an elbow injury.

Shankar has yet to retain his spot in the playing XI, and the fact that he might lead the Yellow army took the fans by surprise. He has scored 118 runs from five innings at an average of 29.50 in the ensuing edition. Despite an unbridled 69 off 54 balls against the Delhi Capitals at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, the local veteran was dropped by the management after their clash against the Mumbai Indians on April 20.

Currently, CSK are at the wooden spoon in the league table with four points from ten games, winning a couple of games and losing eight of them. Additionally, they’ve won just a solitary game from their last nine games. Their next fixture is against RCB at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, before facing KKR, RR, and GT to draw curtains on the season.

In what could be a defining moment for Chennai Super Kings fans, MS Dhoni dropped a surprising statement during the toss ahead of CSK’s match against Punjab Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Speaking with Danny Morrison, Dhoni left fans emotional by joking, "I don't know if I'm coming for the next game (laughs)." His light-hearted comment quickly sparked massive speculation about his retirement from the IPL.

While Dhoni laughed it off, the hint was enough to send the cricket world into a frenzy. Fans present at Chepauk and millions watching from home couldn’t help but wonder, Is this the end of an era?

Dhoni’s Stunning Comment at Toss

When Danny Morrison cheekily asked if fans could expect Dhoni back next year, the CSK captain replied with his signature smile, “Currently, I don’t know if I’m playing the next game or not (laughs).”

Dhoni elaborated on CSK’s season struggles, emphasizing the importance of home advantage, pride in performance, and the challenges of team consistency after a fresh auction:

“Home advantage is very important, which we haven’t been able to capitalise on. We’ve been on the side where we don’t make many changes. But this season, it hasn’t worked for us. If most players are doing well, you chop and change just 1-2 players. But this year, we’ve had to make more changes.”

ALSO SEE: IPL 2025: Glenn Maxwell ruled out of tournament; Here is reason

Is Retirement Around the Corner?

Last year, Dhoni had openly expressed his wish to play his final IPL match at Chepauk in front of his beloved home crowd. CSK’s final home game this season is against Rajasthan Royals on May 12, and fans are now wondering if that will be Dhoni’s grand farewell.

Although Dhoni has not officially announced his retirement, today’s remarks only fuelled the emotional anticipation. After leading CSK with unmatched pride and passion for so many years, could we be just days away from witnessing the end of an unforgettable chapter?

Match Update: CSK vs PBKS

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first. PBKS had to do without their key overseas player, Glenn Maxwell, who is sidelined due to a fractured finger.

Here are the playing XIs for today’s clash:

Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Shaik Rasheed, Ayush Mhatre, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni (w/c), Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matheesha Pathirana.

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer (c), Josh Inglis (w), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Suryansh Shedge, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh.

As the sun sets over Chennai, all eyes will remain glued not just on the action between CSK and PBKS, but also on every move of MS Dhoni the heartbeat of Chennai Super Kings.