Royal Challengers Bengaluru made history on Friday with a dominant 50-run victory over their Southern rivals, Chennai Super Kings, in the IPL 2025 match. This triumph was particularly significant as it marked RCB’s first win at the iconic Chepauk ground after a staggering 17-year wait. Electing to bat first, RCB set a challenging total of 196/7 in their 20 overs, with captain Rajat Patidar leading from the front with a brisk 51 off 32 balls. Their bowlers then held CSK to 146/8, securing a comprehensive win.
Despite CSK’s loss, fans were ecstatic to witness MS Dhoni at his absolute best. Before unleashing his power-hitting with an unbeaten 30 off 16 balls, the former skipper stunned spectators with his lightning-quick wicketkeeping. In the fifth over of RCB’s innings, Dhoni showcased his sharp reflexes by stumping Phil Salt for 32 off a Noor Ahmad delivery, an effort that left fans in awe of his skills even at the age of 43.
While many were amazed by Dhoni’s trademark stumping, former India batter Virender Sehwag downplayed the effort. Commenting on the dismissal, Sehwag remarked, “It’s not like that it was a very wonderful stumping. Any normal wicketkeeper could have done it because his (Salt’s) leg was already out and he did not even try to bring it back into the crease.” He further added, “I don’t know what conversation took place between Dhoni and Noor Ahmad. Whether he told Noor to keep bowling outside thinking Salt will step out. If that’s the case then it’s good. But still, there’s no doubt that MS is doing some great wicketkeeping at this age.”
Dhoni’s cameo with the bat, which included three boundaries and two massive sixes, was another moment of joy for his loyal fans. However, despite his heroics, CSK fell short, and RCB’s long-awaited victory at Chepauk became the defining story of the match.
