Credit: IPL
MS Dhoni, the former India captain and the eternal leader of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), is widely regarded as one of the most successful captains in IPL history. With a calm demeanour, sharp cricketing brain, and unwavering belief in his players, Dhoni has steered CSK to five IPL titles and numerous playoffs. Here are seven iconic moments that highlight MS Dhoni's captaincy genius in the Indian Premier League.
1. IPL 2010 final versus Mumbai Indians
In the inaugural title win for CSK, Dhoni showcased his strategic acumen in the final against Mumbai Indians. He promoted himself up the order to stabilize the innings and expertly rotated his bowlers. The masterstroke was using part-timer Suresh Raina to slow down MI’s momentum and handing key overs to Doug Bollinger, who delivered under pressure.
2. IPL 2023 final
In the IPL 2023 final against Gujarat Titans, Dhoni made a bold move by standing up to the stumps for a pacer—something rarely seen in T20s. His anticipation and lightning-fast glovework led to the dismissal of Shubman Gill, who was in prime form. That wicket disrupted GT's momentum early on and ultimately helped them secure their fifth IPL title.
3. Backing Shane Watson in 2018 final
Despite a series of low scores throughout the season, Shane Watson retained Dhoni’s faith going into the final. Many questioned this decision, but Dhoni believed in Watson’s ability to deliver on the big stage. Watson went on to smash an unbeaten 117 off 57 balls, single-handedly winning the title for CSK.
4. 84 vs RCB in IPL 2019
In one of the most thrilling chases in IPL history, CSK needed 26 runs off the last over against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Dhoni kept his calm and smashed 24 runs off five balls, almost pulling off a miraculous win. Though CSK fell short by one run, this remains a legendary innings that showcased his leadership and composure.
5. CSK vs SRH IPL 2018 Qualifier 1
Facing a tough SRH side in Qualifier 1, Dhoni promoted Faf du Plessis to open the innings on a difficult pitch. While others struggled, Faf played a match-winning knock of 67* to take CSK into the final. Dhoni’s decision to hold back Bravo and use Deepak Chahar in the middle overs paid off as well, effectively dismantling SRH’s batting lineup.
6. IPL 2021 final vs KKR
KKR started strong in the 2021 final with a 91-run opening stand. Dhoni, as always, didn’t panic. He shuffled his bowlers intelligently, used Jadeja and Moeen Ali to break the partnership, and applied pressure through sharp field placements. His calmness helped the team regroup, and CSK staged a brilliant comeback to win their fourth title.
7. Backing Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2020
Ruturaj Gaikwad had a rough start in IPL 2020 with three consecutive ducks. While many would have dropped him, Dhoni continued backing the young opener. Gaikwad repaid the faith with three back-to-back half-centuries to close out the season. That decision laid the foundation for Gaikwad’s stellar 2021 campaign, where he won the Orange Cap.
