IPL 2025: Dhoni Reflects on CSK’s Tough Season After Last-Over Win Over KKR

Despite being out of IPL 2025 playoff contention, Chennai Super Kings hold their heads high as MS Dhoni’s calm finish and Dewald Brevis’ explosive fifty lift them to a morale-boosting two-wicket victory at Eden Gardens.

Kolkata, May 8:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may be out of the IPL 2025 playoff race, but their fighting spirit was on full display as they pulled off a thrilling two-wicket win against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

MS Dhoni, once again showcasing his trademark composure, played a key role in the final over, steering CSK home after a rollercoaster of a chase that ended with just two balls to spare. The victory marked CSK’s third win of the season, bringing some relief to an otherwise challenging campaign.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Dhoni didn’t sugarcoat CSK’s struggles.

“Few? This is just the third game we have won (laughs),” he quipped when asked about emotions after the win.
“There were a few things that didn’t go our way. You could get emotional, talk about pride, but you have to be practical.”

With the playoffs out of reach, Dhoni revealed the team’s focus had shifted to experimenting with squad combinations and assessing future potential.

“You want to be competitive, but you also want answers — which batter fits where, which bowler suits what conditions. It’s about checking the mental toughness and approach.”

Dewald Brevis, playing a fearless innings, smashed 52 off 25 balls, helping CSK recover from early setbacks. He and Shivam Dube (45 off 40) stitched a vital middle-order partnership that anchored the chase.

Dhoni praised Brevis’ intent and the team’s growing self-belief with the bat:

“Thanks to Brevis, we had the luxury to take it deep. The spinners had help from the surface, so we didn’t want to give wickets to Sunil (Narine) and Varun (Chakravarthy). It wasn’t easy for pacers.”

He also reflected on the pressures of batting as the last man standing, adding:

“Being the last batter, the pressure is higher — if I get out, the game’s over. So rotating strike becomes more difficult. Dube’s sixes helped bring the required rate down.”

The crowd at Eden Gardens roared with every shot from Dhoni, who acknowledged the overwhelming love and support from fans, aware that his retirement could be near.

“I’m 42 — I’ve played a long time. A lot of fans don’t know when it’ll be the last time, so they come to watch. I can’t escape the fact I’m in the last phase.”

When asked about his future, Dhoni offered a candid answer:

“After this IPL, I’ll have to work hard for another 6–8 months and see if my body can take the pressure. Nothing is decided yet. But the love I’ve received is exceptional.”