Captain Cool Unstoppable: MS Dhoni’s Age-Defying Dominance in IPL 2025

MS Dhoni: Still Dominating at 43 in IPL 2025!

Dhoni Set to Shine Again in IPL 2025

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, is all set to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. Even though he played his last international match in 2019, he will be back on the field in IPL 2025, ready to smash bowlers with his powerful shots. At the age of 43, Dhoni continues to dominate the game, leaving fans and experts amazed by his fitness and performance.

Former cricketers Harbhajan Singh and Aakash Chopra recently spoke about how Dhoni is still able to perform at such a high level despite his age. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the team he has led to multiple IPL titles, retained him for ₹4 crore before the IPL 2025 mega auction. In IPL 2024, Dhoni played 14 matches and scored 161 runs, including 13 sixes. Now, ahead of the 2025 season, he has been seen practicing hard at the CSK training camp.

How Does Dhoni Keep Dominating at 43?

Chennai Super Kings M.S. Dhoni during an IPL 2024 match. | Photo Credit: JOTHI RAMALINGAM B

During a discussion on ESPN Cricinfo, Harbhajan Singh shared his thoughts on Dhoni’s incredible fitness and dedication. He said:

“Last year, he was fantastic. Recently, I met him at a friend’s wedding, and he looked extremely fit. I asked him, ‘Isn’t it difficult to keep playing at this level?’ He replied, ‘Yes, it’s tough, but this is the only thing I love doing. I enjoy it.’ That shows how committed he is to the game.”

Harbhajan further explained why Dhoni is still a force to reckon with in IPL.

“Last season, he dominated both international and domestic bowlers. His success is not just talent but also hard work. He starts practicing two to three months in advance, facing countless deliveries. He is always the first to arrive at the ground and the last to leave. The more balls you face, the better your timing and flow become. That’s why he continues to perform so well.”

Dhoni’s work ethic is truly inspiring. In Chennai, he practices batting for 2-3 hours every day, which keeps his reflexes sharp. This dedication is what sets him apart from many younger players.

Aakash Chopra: “Dhoni is Honest About His Abilities”

Former cricketer and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra also praised Dhoni, highlighting how self-aware and honest he is about his game.

“Dhoni knows exactly what he can and cannot do. That honesty is very important. Many people wonder why he doesn’t come to bat earlier in the innings if he is still hitting the ball so well. But in his mind, he knows he cannot bat for 40 balls straight.”

Chopra further explained that Dhoni’s clarity about his strengths and limitations is what makes him a great player.

“Sometimes, knowing what you cannot do is just as important as knowing what you can. Dhoni understands this better than anyone else, and that’s what makes him such a smart cricketer.”

Will IPL 2025 See the Return of ‘Captain Cool’ in Full Power?

Even though Dhoni is getting older, his experience, cricketing brain, and ability to hit big shots still make him a dangerous player. In IPL 2024, he proved that he can still take on the best bowlers and deliver match-winning performances. His strength lies in his powerful hitting, and he is focusing on maintaining that ability.

As IPL 2025 approaches, CSK fans are eagerly waiting to see their ‘Thala’ (leader) in action once again. Will Dhoni once again finish games in his trademark style? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure—MS Dhoni is not done yet, and his fans can expect plenty of thrilling moments in IPL 2025!