Aakash Chopra Critiques MS Dhoni's Performance in IPL 2025

Chopra's Assessment of Dhoni's IPL Performance

Aakash Chopra has offered a candid evaluation of MS Dhoni's performance during the 2025 IPL season, highlighting the veteran's diminishing influence both as a batsman and a wicketkeeper. The Chennai Super Kings faced their most challenging season yet, finishing last in the standings with only four victories out of 14 matches. Chopra emphasized that Dhoni's legacy should not exempt him from scrutiny.

"In recent seasons, he has frequently batted at positions 7 or lower. A closer look reveals that he has batted at positions 8 or 9 nearly 45% of the time. Although he has hit several sixes, most of those runs came when the outcomes were already decided," Chopra remarked on Star Sports.

Chopra also noted Dhoni's difficulties against spin bowling and pointed out that he dropped four catches this season, which is unusual for him.

"His contributions in matches that mattered have not been particularly noteworthy. A major concern is his dot-ball percentage against spin, which stands at 45%, one of the highest rates. As a wicketkeeper, he has shown moments of brilliance, but the statistics present a different narrative. He has allowed the most runs among keepers this season. While he has taken five catches, he has also dropped four, a surprising statistic for someone of his caliber," he added.

CSK's Historic Low in IPL 2025

Chopra's sharp critique comes on the heels of a historic low for the Chennai Super Kings, who finished at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table for the first time in their history. CSK secured only four wins and suffered ten losses throughout their 14-match campaign.

Dhoni, who played while dealing with a knee injury, concluded the season with 196 runs, averaging 24.50 and achieving a strike rate of 135.17. His highest score was an unbeaten 30. Although he provided some entertainment with brief innings, Chopra pointed out that most of these performances occurred in matches that were already lost for CSK.

While Dhoni has yet to announce his retirement, speculation is growing about whether this IPL season could mark the end of his illustrious career as the CSK captain.