Dhoni and Dube Guide Chennai Super Kings end Losing Streak
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) brought an end to their concerning five-match losing streak in the 2025 Indian Premier League, securing a much-needed five-wicket victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Monday, April 14th. Facing a potentially challenging situation in the run chase, the experienced duo of MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube steered CSK across the finish line with a decisive unbeaten partnership.
Jadeja and Noor Contain Lucknow
After being asked to bat first, Lucknow Super Giants were restricted to 166 for 7, their lowest total of the season so far. Captain Rishabh Pant anchored the innings with his first half-century for LSG, scoring 63 off 49 balls, although he found scoring difficult against Chennai's spinners. Ravindra Jadeja was particularly effective, claiming two important wickets (2/24), while Noor Ahmad bowled an exceptionally economical spell, conceding just 13 runs from his four overs. This collective bowling effort ensured LSG posted a manageable target.
Opening Stand Sets the Platform
Chennai Super Kings received a positive start from their openers. Shaik Rasheed, a former U-19 World Cup vice-captain, showed promise with an aggressive 27 off 19 balls, including several impressive boundaries. Alongside Rachin Ravindra (37 off 22), Rasheed helped CSK reach fifty runs inside the fifth over, laying a solid foundation for the chase.
Lucknow Spinners had some control
LSG fought back strongly through their spinners during the middle overs. Ravi Bishnoi, in particular, bowled an excellent spell (2/18), claiming key wickets and slowing down CSK's momentum. The dismissals of Vijay Shankar and Ravindra Jadeja created some pressure, leaving CSK needing a strong finish with five overs remaining.
Crucial Dhoni and Dube partnership
At a crucial juncture, MS Dhoni joined Shivam Dube at the crease. While Dube had initially struggled for fluency against the spinners, the arrival of Dhoni and the return of pace bowling allowed both batters to flourish. Dhoni, striking at over 200 against pace since last season, played a vital cameo of 26 not out from just 11 balls. Dube accelerated effectively, finishing unbeaten on 43. Their unbroken partnership yielded 57 runs in only 28 balls. They particularly targeted the penultimate over bowled by Shardul Thakur, scoring 19 runs to essentially seal the outcome. Dhoni was named Player of the Match for his innings.
CSK's disciplined bowling performance set the stage for the victory. Despite a mid-innings wobble during the chase, the calm heads and power-hitting of MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube ensured Chennai Super Kings successfully achieve the required target.
