MS Dhoni : The legend of MS Dhoni — once untouchable, unfazed, and unshakeable — is now under the scanner. As the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League rolls on, murmurs about “Thala” overstaying his welcome have grown louder. And now, one of his former teammates, Manoj Tiwary, has boldly claimed that Dhoni should have bowed out after CSK’s fairytale title win in 2023.
MS Dhoni Should Have Retired After IPL 2023: Ex-Teammate Fears Thala Is Losing “Spark”
“Fame, Name & Respect Slipping Away,” Says Tiwary
In a candid interview with Cricbuzz, Tiwary didn’t mince words. He believes that Dhoni continuing to play in IPL 2025 — despite not being the force he once was — is denting his legacy.
“The right time for him to retire was in 2023, when he won the IPL trophy. All the fame, name, and respect he earned — it’s kind of slipping away now with how he’s playing,” Tiwary remarked.
Dhoni’s performance this season hasn’t helped quiet the critics. Batting way down the order, sometimes at No. 9, and struggling to finish games, even die-hard CSK fans are now openly questioning his impact.
“Decisions Not in Team’s Interest”
Tiwary also criticized the team management, suggesting that no one had the courage to make tough calls about Dhoni’s role. He claimed that Dhoni’s continued low-order position wasn’t doing the team any favors and that a serious discussion was overdue.
“A strong call needs to be made. If it’s not working anymore, it’s okay — let it go,” Tiwary added.
Robin Uthappa Has a Different Take: “Let Dhoni Bat at No. 3”
While Tiwary called for an exit, former CSK player Robin Uthappa had a rather unconventional suggestion. In a podcast, Uthappa advocated for Dhoni to bat at No. 3 — not to boost performance per se, but to help the younger players grow by watching a legend from close quarters.
“If Dhoni plays 35-40 balls and needs rest after that, bring in Devon Conway as the wicketkeeper. It’s a win-win,” Uthappa argued.
He explained that Dhoni’s old-school method of “getting his eye in” doesn’t fit today’s explosive T20 style, but it still holds educational value for the next generation.
Dhoni’s Numbers in IPL 2025 So Far
- Match 1: 0*
- Match 2: 30 (16)
- Match 3: 16 (11)
- Match 4: 30 (26)
The game against Delhi Capitals saw him occupy the crease for nearly 10 overs, yet CSK fell short, sparking fan backlash.
Fleming Defends, But Fans Divided
CSK coach Stephen Fleming defended Dhoni, citing his knee issues and stating that Dhoni decides when and where to bat. But that hasn’t stopped fans and critics from questioning whether it’s time for Thala to pass the torch.
MS Dhoni has achieved everything a cricketer can dream of — World Cups, IPL titles, the respect of millions. But as time catches up, even the greats must make tough decisions. Whether Dhoni chooses to go out on his own terms or not, one thing remains certain: his legacy is already etched in gold. But will he protect it — or risk tarnishing it?
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