Chennai Super Kings' two-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 4 has raised uncomfortable questions -- particularly about MS Dhoni’s decision-making and form. The defeat not only handed RCB their first-ever season double over CSK but also put the spotlight on Dhoni -- both as a captain and a batter.
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CSK's overall campaign has struggled, but it was Dhoni’s choices during the crunch moments at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium that drew attention.
Former Australia captain Adam Gilchrist - speaking on Cricbuzz - questioned the decision to bring back Khaleel Ahmed for the 19th over, especially after the pacer had gone for 32 runs in his first two.
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Is MS Dhoni losing his tactical astuteness? Adam Gilchrist raises questions
Gilchrist felt Dhoni missed a trick by not using Ravindra Jadeja or Anshul Kambhoj, particularly after Noor Ahmad finished a tidy spell.
"Maybe he could have gone to Kambhoj... Jadeja with an extra over of spin is what he could have gone with. It’s such a mixed bag," said Gilchrist.
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The Australian great went further, wondering if Dhoni’s mind is still ticking the way it once did.
"I just wonder if the energy is still being generated for him internally... Whether the brain is still ticking for him as astutely as it always has, as he edges closer and closer to the end," he added.
Dhoni’s dismissal -- missing a full toss from Yash Dayal -- also surprised Gilchrist, who hinted that such moments suggest the legend isn’t quite at his best.
"Even MS... just to miss that one... effectively it was a full toss. He never used to miss those," he said.
With CSK officially out of playoff contention, the focus now shifts to what lies ahead -- not just for the team but for Dhoni -- whose future remains uncertain.
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