Navjot Singh Sidhu slams MS Dhoni’s missed free-hit as CSK suffer third straight loss

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) batting woes continued as they slumped to their third consecutive defeat in IPL 2025, this time at the hands of Delhi Capitals. Playing at their home ground, the Chepauk Stadium — once a fortress for the five-time champions — CSK failed to chase down a target of 184, falling short by 24 runs. Though MS Dhoni and Vijay Shankar stayed unbeaten till the end, their slow-paced partnership drew heavy criticism from fans and pundits alike.

Coming in at No. 7, Dhoni scored an unbeaten 30 off 26 balls, while Vijay Shankar added 69* from 54 deliveries. Despite their experience, the pair failed to accelerate when it mattered the most. One particular moment — a missed opportunity on a free-hit — brought the sharp tongue of commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu into the spotlight. As CSK required 94 runs from 40 balls, Sidhu expected fireworks. "If he doesn't go now, then when?" he said on air. When Dhoni missed the free-hit delivery, Sidhu quipped, "Le bhaiya, ye toh phush pataka nikla (that turned out to be a blank fire)."

Axar Patel praises team effort, calls for more consistent execution

Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, continued their dream start to the season. With three wins from three games, the Axar Patel-led side achieved a feat they last managed in 2009. KL Rahul’s classy 77-run knock and a tight bowling display from Vipraj Nigam and Kuldeep Yadav choked the CSK middle order. Reflecting on the team’s performance, Axar said, "I did not expect it to be easy (on winning three on the bounce). Everyone contributed, the team balance looks good. Feels good as a captain to win three out of three."

Axar also revealed he was nursing an injury and didn’t bowl much due to a finger issue. "Every match, there are some great catches and some drops as well. As a captain, I do not think we have played a perfect match yet. IPL is a long tournament, the momentum can swing anytime," he added.

DC posted a strong 183/6 after electing to bat first. KL Rahul anchored the innings with support from Abishek Porel (33 off 20) and Sameer Rizwi (20 off 15). Tristan Stubbs’ 12-ball 24* provided the late fireworks. For CSK, Khaleel Ahmed (2/25) stood out with the ball.

During the chase, CSK lost early momentum, crumbling to 74/5. Despite Dhoni and Shankar’s resistance, the Men in Yellow ended at 158/5  leaving fans wondering if changes were imminent.

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