"Is Brain Still Ticking?": Captain MS Dhoni Faces Critical Questions After RCB Defeat
MS Dhoni’s Tactical Decisions Under Scrutiny After CSK’s Defeat to RCB – IPL 2025
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Former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist has raised questions about MS Dhoni’s tactical decisions and overall form following Chennai Super Kings’ defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025. The analysis comes at a crucial time as CSK, the five-time champions, find themselves eliminated from playoff contention in what is speculated to be Dhoni’s final season.
Tactical Decisions in Question
The primary point of contention was Dhoni’s decision to bowl Khaleel Ahmed in the penultimate over, which proved costly as Romario Shepherd capitalized with a devastating assault:
- 33 runs conceded in the over
- 4 sixes and 2 boundaries hit
- Khaleel had previously conceded 32 runs in his first two overs
“Tactically, I don’t know if a huge difference could have been made. Given going back to Khaleel was risky at the back end because he had gone for somewhat 32 runs in the first two overs. Maybe he could have gone to Kambhoj. Given where Noor finished, Jadeja with an extra over of spin is what he could have gone with. It’s such a mixed bag. They also bowled 45 dot balls,” – Adam Gilchrist
Captaincy and Energy Concerns
Gilchrist’s analysis delved deeper into Dhoni’s captaincy style and energy levels, noting:
- Dhoni’s characteristic calm demeanor remains unchanged
- Questions about internal energy generation
- Concerns about tactical acumen as career end approaches
“MS…he is never animated or shows any visible signs that he is upset. I just wonder if the energy is still being generated for him internally. Whether the brain is still ticking for him as astutely as it always has, as he edges closer and closer to the end.”
However, Gilchrist was quick to acknowledge that Dhoni has been “let down by some bad bowling,” suggesting that the team’s performance issues extend beyond captaincy decisions.
Batting Form Analysis
Gilchrist’s observations extended to Dhoni’s batting performance, particularly noting his dismissal to a full toss from Yash Dayal. The analysis highlighted how this type of dismissal contrasts with Dhoni’s prime years, where such deliveries were typically dispatched with ease.
“Even MS, just a sign of where he is at. Just to miss that one…effectively it was a full toss. He never used to miss those…used to just pick them up.”
As CSK faces elimination from playoff contention, these observations from a cricket legend like Adam Gilchrist add to the ongoing discussion about MS Dhoni’s future in the IPL. While acknowledging Dhoni’s immense contribution to the sport, the analysis raises important questions about the evolution of leadership and performance in cricket’s most demanding T20 league.
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