Dhoni's Record-Breaking Performance

In a thrilling IPL 2025 match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) interim captain MS Dhoni gave a match-winning display to write his name in the record books. Dhoni, who was 43 and 280 days old, became the oldest player in IPL history to be awarded the Player of the Match award. This success overcame the previous record achieved by Pravin Tambe, who was 42 and 208 days old when he received the honor in 2014.

Dhoni's unscathed 26 runs from only 11 balls, including four boundaries and a six, were the key to CSK's successful pursuit of LSG's 167 runs. His late-order heroics handed a five-wicket win to CSK, their second of the season.

Humble Acknowledgment

Though he was the key to the win, Dhoni was taken aback to be given the Player of the Match award. Dhoni thought Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad, who had an economical spell, should have got the award. "Even today I was like - 'why are they giving me the award?' Noor bowled well," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.

A Legacy of Leadership

This award was Dhoni's 17th Player of the Match award as a captain in IPL history, the most among any captain in the league. It leveled him with Virat Kohli, both of whom had 18 Player of the Match awards, which was the joint-highest among Indian players.

Looking Ahead

Dhoni's performance not only showcased his enduring skill but also provided a morale boost for CSK, who had been struggling in the tournament. With this victory, CSK aims to build momentum and improve their standings in the IPL 2025 season.​