Manoj Tiwary says CSK should ask MS Dhoni to step aside

MS Dhoni, the face of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and a celebrated figure in Indian cricket, is under increasing scrutiny as the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season progresses. While his brilliance behind the stumps remains undiminished, questions are being raised about his batting contributions. Dhoni, once known as the ultimate finisher, has not managed to guide CSK to victory in any match this season. Concerns have mounted around his late entry into the batting order and inability to accelerate the run rate when it matters the most.

The game against Delhi Capitals turned out to be a key talking point, where Dhoni consumed 26 balls to score just 30 runs. This innings, perceived as unusually slow by the CSK veteran’s standards, has reignited the conversation around his role in the team. Many feel that Dhoni, despite his iconic status, may be doing more harm than good with the bat.

“He should have retired after the 2023 IPL”: Manoj Tiwary’s candid take

Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary didn't mince words while expressing his opinion on Dhoni’s continued presence in the CSK lineup. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Tiwary said, "Forgive me if I'm being a little strict here. He should have retired after the 2023 IPL; it was his best time. With all the respect he has earned over the years, fans have not been able to see him in the last two years, and he is getting lost. Look at how the Chennai fans are reacting, coming out on the roads and giving those interviews."

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, defending Dhoni’s performances, stated in a recent press conference that Dhoni is managing a knee issue which limits his ability to bat for long durations. But Tiwary questioned the reasoning. "He is making the effort. Stephen Fleming also said Dhoni cannot bat more than 10 overs. But I can't understand, when you can field for more than 20 overs, where you have to sit up and down, dive to take catches, make runouts, then your knee doesn't hurt, but when it comes to helping the team win, you talk about 10 overs," he said.

Tiwary went on to call for a bold decision from the franchise. “All the decisions are being taken around him, but nothing is working for the team. I feel they should take a strong call and make him understand that it's not working and that he should leave,” he added.

As speculation about Dhoni’s retirement grows stronger, fans and experts alike are wondering whether this season might be the last time they see the legendary ‘Thala’ on the IPL stage.

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