MS Dhoni becomes oldest player to win player of the match in IPL history after CSK’s thrilling win over LSG
PTC Web Desk: In a thrilling last-over showdown at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured their second win of the IPL 2025 season, thanks to a vintage performance by their legendary skipper MS Dhoni.
Stepping in as a stand-in captain, MS Dhoni rolled back the years, hammering an electrifying 26 runs off just 11 balls to help CSK chase down 167 runs against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). His blistering cameo not only sealed the win but also earned him the Player of the Match award.
However, the 43-year-old cricketing icon was modest in victory, suggesting that Afghan spinner Noor Ahmed, who bowled brilliantly, was more deserving of the accolade. "Even today I was like – 'why are they giving me the award?' Noor bowled really well," Dhoni remarked during the post-match presentation.
Despite his humble reaction, Dhoni’s recognition made history. At 43 years and 280 days, he became the oldest player to win a Player of the Match award in the IPL, surpassing Pravin Tambe’s long-standing record set in 2014. Tambe had earned the award at 42 years and 208 days while playing for Rajasthan Royals against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Reflecting on CSK’s overall performance, Dhoni acknowledged the bowling unit’s consistency but emphasised the need for better execution by the batters. "As a bowling unit we've done well. As a batting unit, we can do better," he noted. Dhoni also praised young batter Shaik Rasheed, highlighting his promise and progress in the nets.
With this landmark achievement, MS Dhoni continues to defy age and expectations, further cementing his legacy in IPL folklore. Fans across the globe celebrated the iconic cricketer’s brilliance, once again chanting "Thala" as he led CSK to another memorable victory.
- With inputs from agencies
