Navjot Singh Sidhu Criticizes MS Dhoni’s Performance Following CSK's Loss to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 Match 17

In what has quickly become one of the most discussed post-match debates of the IPL 2025 season, former India cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu launched a scathing attack on MS Dhoni following Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) 25-run defeat against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 17 of the tournament.

The Flashpoint – Free Hit Miss

The particular moment that drew Sidhu’s ire came during the 18th over of CSK’s innings when Dhoni, facing a crucial free hit, mistimed a delivery that was there to be dispatched. The CSK captain could only manage a single instead of a much-needed boundary, which Sidhu deemed the turning point of the chase.

On live broadcast, Sidhu labeled the moment as a “phush patakha” (a damp squib), ridiculing Dhoni’s execution at a critical juncture.

“When you get a free hit and you play a dot or a single, it shows the pressure. This wasn’t the Dhoni of old,” Sidhu remarked.

Calls for Retirement Resurface

Sidhu didn’t stop there. The former Punjab cricketer went on to suggest that Dhoni should have retired from the Indian Premier League after IPL 2023, where he had led CSK to their fifth title.

“The script had a perfect ending in 2023. Every great should know when to walk away. MS Dhoni should have taken that moment to retire at the top,” he said during the post-match show.

This statement has sparked widespread debate among fans and experts, with social media platforms lighting up with opinions both defending and criticizing Dhoni.

Dhoni’s Performance – A Closer Look

In the match against Delhi Capitals, MS Dhoni walked in at No. 6 with CSK in a precarious position. While he did manage to score 41 not out off 20 balls, it wasn’t enough to bridge the growing gap in required run rate. His knock, while aggressive towards the end, was deemed too little, too late by critics.

The larger question Sidhu raised is whether Dhoni’s presence is hurting CSK’s team balance. With the 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman mostly playing a finisher’s role, several former players have started asking if it’s time for CSK to groom a new leader and batting finisher.

Support for Dhoni Remains Strong

Despite Sidhu’s remarks, CSK fans and many cricketing voices have come out in defense of Dhoni, pointing out his invaluable experience, tactical genius, and ability to marshal resources effectively.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri said on commentary:

“MS is a master of handling pressure. One free-hit miss doesn’t define a match. CSK’s middle-order collapse was the real issue.”

Even Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant, when asked about Dhoni, showed respect:

“MS bhai is a legend. We were lucky he didn’t get more strike at the end.”

Sidhu’s History of Bold Opinions

This isn’t the first time Navjot Singh Sidhu has made bold, controversial statements. Known for his poetic and often provocative commentary style, Sidhu has both amused and annoyed viewers over the years.

During IPL 2024, he had critiqued Virat Kohli’s strike rate and questioned Rohit Sharma’s captaincy during India’s World Cup campaign. His directness makes for engaging television but also invites criticism from those who feel he is too harsh on Indian legends.

CSK’s IPL 2025 Journey So Far

CSK’s campaign in IPL 2025 has been inconsistent. With only 2 wins in 5 matches, the team is currently in the bottom half of the points table. Injuries and underperforming top-order batsmen have added to their woes.

Dhoni, while not officially captaining the side anymore, is believed to still call the shots on field settings and DRS reviews, with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading in name only.

What This Means for CSK

With pressure mounting, CSK’s next match against Mumbai Indians is now a must-win clash. The team will have to re-evaluate their strategy and potentially rotate players to find a winning combination.

The CSK think tank, led by Stephen Fleming and Dhoni himself, will also need to address the rising criticism. Whether this means altering Dhoni’s role or proving doubters like Sidhu wrong with improved performances remains to be seen.

Fan Reactions: Divided Opinions

On X (formerly Twitter), fans reacted sharply:

  • @YellowArmyFan: “Sidhu talks too much. Dhoni is still the best finisher in the game. Back off, bro.”

  • @CricketCritic360: “Harsh but true. MS Dhoni needs to realize the team’s future needs space to grow.”

  • @IPLupdates24x7: “One missed free hit and the whole world turns on MSD. Unreal.”

Looking Ahead

Chennai Super Kings’ next match is against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, and all eyes will be on MS Dhoni. Will he answer Sidhu’s criticism with his bat? Or will the debate continue to overshadow CSK’s performances?

Key Match Stats: CSK vs DC – IPL 2025 Match 17

  • Match Result: Delhi Capitals won by 25 runs

  • MS Dhoni: 41* (20)

  • Player of the Match: Kuldeep Yadav (3/24)

  • CSK Points Table Position: 6th

  • Next Match: CSK vs MI at Wankhede Stadium