MS Dhoni’s Vintage Finish Ends CSK’s Losing Streak Against LSG in IPL 2025​

In a thrilling encounter at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) snapped their five-match losing streak with a five-wicket victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 14, 2025. The match witnessed a vintage performance from MS Dhoni, who scored an unbeaten 26 off just 11 balls, steering CSK to a successful chase of 167 runs with three balls to spare.​

LSG Sets a Competitive Target​

After winning the toss and opting to bowl, CSK’s bowlers managed to keep LSG to a total of 166/7 in their 20 overs. LSG’s captain, Rishabh Pant, led from the front with a composed 63 off 49 balls, while Mitchell Marsh contributed 30 runs. CSK’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Ravindra Jadeja and Matheesha Pathirana, who took two wickets each. Additionally, Noor Ahmad delivered an economical spell, conceding only 13 runs in his four overs.

CSK’s Chase Anchored by Youngsters and Finished by Dhoni​

CSK’s chase began with a solid foundation laid by debutant Shaik Rasheed, who scored a brisk 27 off 19 balls, and Rachin Ravindra, who added 37 runs. However, the middle overs saw a slump, with CSK losing quick wickets. Shivam Dube then played a stabilizing role, remaining unbeaten on 43 off 37 balls. The turning point came when MS Dhoni entered the crease with 56 runs needed off the last 30 balls. Displaying his trademark finishing skills, Dhoni’s aggressive innings ensured CSK reached the target, marking their second win of the season. ​

Key Performances​

• MS Dhoni: 26* (11 balls) – A match-winning cameo that turned the game in CSK’s favor.​
• Shivam Dube: 43* (37 balls) – Anchored the innings during a critical phase.​
• Shaik Rasheed: 27 (19 balls) – An impressive debut performance at the top of the order.​
• Ravindra Jadeja: 2/24 – Key wickets that restricted LSG’s scoring.​
• Noor Ahmad: 0/13 (4 overs) – Maintained pressure with an economical spell.​

Conclusion​

This victory was a significant morale booster for CSK, breaking their losing streak and showcasing the depth of their squad. The blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership, epitomized by Dhoni’s finishing prowess, could be the catalyst for a turnaround in their IPL 2025 campaign.

IPL 2025 Points Table (As of April 15, 2025)

Rank	Team	Matches	Wins	Losses	Points	NRR
1	Gujarat Titans	6	4	2	8	+1.081
2	Delhi Capitals	5	4	1	8	+0.899
3	Royal Challengers Bengaluru	6	4	2	8	+0.672
4	Lucknow Super Giants	7	4	3	8	+0.086
5	Kolkata Knight Riders	6	3	3	6	+0.803
6	Punjab Kings	5	3	2	6	+0.065
7	Mumbai Indians	6	2	4	4	+0.104
8	Rajasthan Royals	6	2	4	4	-0.838
9	Sunrisers Hyderabad	6	2	4	4	-1.245
10	Chennai Super Kings	7	2	5	4	-1.276