The energy in Chepauk was electric. In what felt like a scene straight out of a movie, fans packed the stands in yellow, hoping to catch just a glimpse of MS Dhoni during Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 clash with Mumbai Indians. And even though he only faced two deliveries, the roar that followed his entrance was enough to tell the story: this city breathes Dhoni.
One moment, however, had the entire stadium erupt in nostalgia. Suryakumar Yadav, trying to charge down the track against spinner Noor Ahmad, misjudged the delivery. In a blink, Dhoni whipped off the bails—textbook stumping, vintage Dhoni.
No need for the third umpire. SKY just walked off, knowing full well that when Dhoni’s behind the stumps, you’re either in or you’re gone—no gray area.
Watching from the sidelines, former CSK player Ambati Rayudu reflected on the towering presence of the man known simply as “Thala.”
Speaking on Star Sports, Rayudu opened up about the day fans will dread—the one where Dhoni finally bids farewell to the IPL.
“I genuinely worry about how CSK fans will react when Dhoni retires,” Rayudu admitted. “It’s not just cricket to them. They’re Dhoni fans first, CSK fans second. That emotional connection runs deep.”
Rayudu also recalled how, during his playing days, he’d see fans silently rooting for his wicket—not out of malice, but out of sheer love for Dhoni. “They just wanted to see Mahi bhai out there. It’s something you accept because his popularity is unlike anything else in cricket.”
Despite being 43, Dhoni’s sharp reflexes and calm presence haven’t faded. From lightning-fast stumpings to soaking in the pressure of big moments, he still carries the aura that’s been his trademark for nearly two decades.
The truth is, MS Dhoni isn’t just a player—he’s a symbol, a leader, and for many, a reason to watch the IPL at all. And while no one wants to think about the day he walks away, Rayudu’s words serve as a gentle reminder: when that day comes, it won’t just be CSK that feels the void—it’ll be the whole league.