IPL 2025 | 'MS waited for bowlers to make mistakes': Sanjay Bangar hails CSK captain

Sanjay Bangar (Pic: File Pic)

Former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar hailed MS Dhoni as the pivotal force behind Chennai Super Kings' dramatic last-over victories, crediting his composure and tactical acumen for steering the team to consecutive wins. His comments came in the wake of CSK's thrilling two-wicket triumph over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in their recent IPL 2025 encounter.

Bangar emphasised that Dhoni's presence remains a defining factor in CSK's ability to close out tight matches. "He definitely got it right and was well supported by Shivam Dube from the other end. With not much batting left after the pair of Dube and Dhoni, they had to play conservatively. Shivam took the risks, while MS rotated the strike smartly and waited for the bowlers to make mistakes," Bangar said on JioHotstar.

In the clash against KKR, Dhoni once again showcased his leadership prowess by playing a composed innings, rotating the strike effectively with Shivam Dube during the crucial final overs. While not the top scorer, Dhoni's experience proved vital in keeping the scoreboard ticking and maintaining composure under pressure.

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Dube, coming in as an Impact Player, played a crucial role by shouldering his captain in the run chase. The burly left-hander played a knock of 45 runs off 40 deliveries, including two boundaries and three maximums.

Earlier in the IPL 2025 match against Lucknow Super Giants, Dhoni and Dube partnered up to chase a target of 167 runs. Further, Bangar said that CSK needs the services of Dhoni and they simply can't count him out.

"That's been his template, and he's stuck to it despite everything he's gone through this season. CSK needed him again, just like in that win against LSG. You simply can't count him out. In two of CSK's three recent wins, he's been the key in those last-over finishes," he added.

In the IPL 2025, Chennai is now placed in the 10th position of the points table with three wins and nine defeats. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai will now lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The side will then conclude its group stage matches with a game against Gujarat Titans (GT) on May 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

(With ANI Inputs)