Top 5 best knocks of MS Dhoni in IPL history

In the realm of the Indian Premier League, Mahendra Singh Dhoni stands as a household name synonymous with success, particularly with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Dhoni's leadership has been instrumental in guiding CSK to three coveted IPL titles, showcasing his prowess as one of the best finishers in cricket.

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Renowned for his impeccable batting skills and strategic acumen, Dhoni has propelled CSK to become one of the league's most successful franchises. With an illustrious IPL career spanning 250 matches, Dhoni has amassed 5082 runs at an impressive average of over 38, including 24 half-centuries. Let's revisit some of the most memorable innings crafted by MS Dhoni in the IPL.

#5. 51* vs. MI in 2012

Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings are arguably the two best teams in the history of the IPL, with nine titles combined. Facing off in the 2012 eliminator, Chennai had put up a total of 187 for Mumbai to chase. But getting to the defendable 187 was not easy for CSK until Dhoni took the matter into his own hands. Chennai had not crossed the 3-digit mark until the 14th over.

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That is when the skipper arrived. In the next six overs, Dhoni starred with the bat at an incredible strike rate of 255 and played a valiant knock of 51* in just 20 balls. CSK would eventually win the game by 38 runs.

#4. 70* vs. RCB in 2018

Dhoni's innings stand as a testament to one of the most remarkable comebacks by a team, highlighting why MSD is considered one of the most dependable batters in cricket history. Facing the daunting task of chasing 205, Dhoni's team found themselves at a precarious 74/4 by the end of the 9th over. The skipper entered the fray, orchestrating a remarkable turnaround within 10 overs and guiding the visitors to victory with two balls to spare.

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Once again, Dhoni concluded the innings unbeaten, scoring a formidable 70 off half the deliveries. This stellar performance showcased Dhoni's resilience and ability to navigate challenging situations with finesse.

#3. 75* vs. RR in 2019

Playing at Chepauk vs. the Rajasthan Royals, CSK had been asked to bat first. In a surprise move, MS had walked in at number 4 when the hosts had been reduced to 22/2 before the powerplay was over.

Dhoni had led the charge, scoring an unbeaten 75 in 46 balls with four fours and as many sixes. In the last 18 balls of the innings, the Chennai Super Kings had hit the Rajasthan bowlers for 60 runs, most of which were by Dhoni. The hosts had managed to put up 175 on the board, winning the match by 8 runs. Dhoni was adjudged Player of the Match; no questions were asked.

#2. 79* vs. KXIP in 2018

In another remarkable display, Dhoni showcased his batting prowess in a losing effort against the then-Kings XI Punjab, registering his second-highest score. With CSK chasing a formidable 198, they found themselves struggling at 56/3 when Dhoni strode to the crease in the 7th over.

From that point on, MS Dhoni exhibited an unstoppable performance. In a mere 44 balls, he accumulated six fours and five sixes, reaching a commendable 79, featuring a pivotal 16-run penultimate over. Despite his remarkable effort, CSK fell short by 5 runs, marking a bittersweet end to Dhoni's exceptional innings. Nonetheless, not all of Dhoni’s knocks have been in vain, showcasing his ability to leave an impact even in challenging situations.

#1. 84* vs. RCB in 2019

Facing a target of 162 set by hosts Royal Challengers Bangalore, the Chennai Super Kings found themselves at 83/5. Enter MSD, unleashing an aggressive onslaught on the Bangalore bowlers. His phenomenal 48-ball-84 marked his highest-ever individual score in the Indian Premier League, featuring a remarkable 24 runs off just five deliveries in the final over. Despite Dhoni's valiant effort, the visitors narrowly missed the target by just 1 run, leaving Dhoni unbeaten in a game where he gave his all but ended up on the losing side.