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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has been under the scanner for his diminishing batting prowess, batting order and inability to finish games for the franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The formula that worked for him last season, walking in with few overs or deliveries to go and whacking a few sixes, hasn't helped the team's cause. Amidst harsh criticism and speculations about his retirement, Punjab Kings (PBKS) head coach Ricky Ponting lauded the 43-year-old's wicketkeeping. He defended CSK's decision to bat lower down the order and cited 'impact player rule' as the reason behind it.
"Well his keeping is not getting any worse, that’s one thing I do know; he’s not missing many standing up to the stumps against the spinners, as good as ever,” Ponting told the Indian Express.
“Look, you are not going to argue with anything CSK do, they are one of the most successful teams in IPL history. They have had consistent coaching for a long time and generally make the right decisions. With the impact player rule now, Dhoni bats after other serious ball strikers within their own right. I guess he has played a slightly diminished role in the last couple of years, just coming in for the last 10-12 balls and trying to make a big impact. Dhoni is still dangerous in the IPL.”
Ponting was also asked whether he sees Dhoni retiring from the IPL. The former Australian captain had a straightforward answer to the question asked on a lighter note.
“It might just depend on how this season goes. If he can have a real impact with the bat, I think he will keep playing. If his batting output drops, he might start thinking about it. He’s been a terrific player for a long time,” the 50-year-old said.
Dhoni has scored 76 runs from four innings so far. He was criticised for coming in to bat at no.9 in the run chase against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Dhoni's record against next opponent
He will be seen in action when CSK travel to Chandigarh to take on Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 8 in Mullanpur.
Dhoni has a good record against PBKS. He has scored 669 runs from 27 innings at an average of 44.60, including five half-centuries.
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