Can a small boy from Ranchi revolutionize the cricket scene with his mere presence in the stadium? Yes, It happened ! and the only Man who made it happen – The Thala , Sabka Mahi – Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
M.S Dhoni is not just a name in cricket, he’s the soul of the game. There’s no cricket without his name. Let alone his game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or not, you’re well aware of the impact this man has on the hearts of Indians. He’s not just their favourite cricketer – he’s nothing short of the air they breathe . From lightning-fast wicketkeeping to match-winning batting, Dhoni has mastered it all.
But today, let’s relive the moments that had us biting our nails and jumping off our seats :
Top 5 Best Knocks by MS Dhoni in IPL:
1) 84 (48 balls) – CSK vs RCB, IPL 2019
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
- Date: April 21,2019
Why so special: This innings is widely regarded as one of MS Dhoni’s most electrifying knocks in IPL history. Chasing a target of 162, Chennai Super Kings found themselves in deep trouble at 28/4. With wickets tumbling and the required run rate climbing, The moment Dhoni walked in and took charge of the chase with his signature calmness – The Crowd took a sigh of relief. He began slowly but accelerated fiercely in the death overs, smashing 7 sixes and 5 fours in his 48-ball blitz. He nearly pulled offa miraculous win, needing 26 offthe last over and hitting 24 of them.
Although CSK lost by just 1 run, Dhoni’s effort was heroic and showcased his unmatched ability to handle pressure and finish games. The innings earned massive praise for its power, timing, and Dhoni’s never-give-up spirit.
2) 79 (44 balls) – CSK VS KXIP (IPL 2018)
- Venue: Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium,Mohali
- Date: April 15,2018
Why so special: In this thrilling match during IPL 2018, MS Dhoni played one of his finest knocks under pressure. Chasing a massive target of 198, CSK was in trouble after losing early wickets. Dhoni came in with the required run rate mounting and wickets falling at the other end. He remained calm and calculated, expertly rotating strike and punishing bad deliveries.
His 79* off just 44 balls included 6 sixes and 5 fours, and he almost single-handedly carried CSK to victory. Though CSK eventually fell short by just 4 runs, Dhoni’s powerful finish and ability to keep hopes alive until the last over made this innings unforgettable.
3) 75 (46 balls) – CSK vs Rajasthan Royals (IPL 2019)
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Date: March 31,2019
Why so special: This was a classic Dhoni masterclass played on a tough, turning track in Chennai – conditions where stroke-making wasn’t easy.
CSK were struggling at 27/3 when Dhoni walked in, and the Rajasthan Royals bowlers were dominating. Showing incredible game awareness, Dhoni rebuilt the innings patiently before launching a brutal assault in the final overs. He ended with an unbeaten 75 off 46 balls, laced with 4 boundaries and 4 towering sixes.
His late flourish powered CSK to a defendable total of 175. More than just the runs, the timing and impact of the knock in such challenging conditions made Dhoni – Thala for a reason.
4) 70 (40 Balls) – CSK vs RCB (IPL 2011)
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
- Date: May 22,2011
Why so special?: This explosive innings came during Qualifier 1 of IPL 2011 – a High-stakes playoffmatch. (A must watch)
Batting first, CSK needed a strong finish after a steady start. MS Dhoni walked in with about 6 overs left and completely changed the momentum of the game. He tore into the RCB bowlers, scoring a blistering 70 off just 40 deliveries, including 6 fours and 3 sixes, most of which came in the death overs. His powerful hitting helped CSK post a formidable total of 175.
More importantly, the knock came under pressure in a knockout game, paving the way for CSK’s entry into the final, which they eventually won.
This match is one of my personal favorites , Dhoni’s Display of big-match temperament and ability to rise when it matters most – Won millions of hearts.
5) 70 (34 balls) – CSK vs RCB 2018
- Venue: M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Date: April 25,2018.
Why so special?: This iconic knock is one of Dhoni’s most unforgettable chases in IPL history. Chasing a steep target of 206 set by RCB, CSK needed something extraordinary and Dhoni delivered. Coming in during a tense middle phase, he unleashed his full power in the death overs, smashing 7 sixes and 1 four in his unbeaten 70 off just 34 balls.
His powerful hitting, especially against RCB’s death bowlers, was a display of vintage Dhoni finishing. He was well-supported by Ambati Rayudu, but Dhoni’s calmness and brutal acceleration turned the tide. CSK chased down the target with 2 balls to spare, and this innings reaffirmed his reputation as one of the greatest finishers in T20 cricket.
Watching MS Dhoni is a sight to sore eyes. But watching him play is a sight to Extreme highs. M.S Dhoni is an indelible name in cricket history, A personality you come across once in a lifetime and his IPL performances are always a high & low Adrenaline tide. From lows of his calm demeanor to highs of his fierce onslaught on the battleground.
So, when fans scream “Mahi maar raha hai!”, they’re not lying – they’re riding the tide.
(Written by RITESH SINGH)
