M S Dhoni's much-anticipated arrival at No. 7 against the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati momentarily lifted Chennai Super Kings' hopes, but it ultimately ended in disappointment on Sunday.
His 11-ball 16, though laced with glimpses of vintage power, was not enough to overturn CSK's fate as they succumbed to a six run defeat.
Tasked with the near impossible equation of 20 runs required off the final over, Dhoni walked out to face Sandeep Sharma, a bowler who had previously been at the receiving end of the former captain's finishing prowess.
The crowd erupted as the legendary finisher took guard, hoping for another Dhoni special. However, the reality of the situation soon unfolded differently.
Sandeep started the over with a wide, momentarily raising hopes of a dramatic comeback. Dhoni, standing deep in his crease, looked to launch Sharma over the mid-wicket boundary. The ball was angled into him, not quite in the slot, but Dhoni still went for the big hit.
Unlike his trademark helicopter shots that sent balls soaring into the stands, this one lacked the required power and timing. He struck it hard, but it was a flat, mistimed shot that went straight to Shimron Hetmyer at deep mid-wicket.
The West Indian steadied himself near the boundary rope and made no mistake, taking a sharp catch to send Dhoni back.
The moment was deflating, not just for CSK but for the thousands of fans watching, who had expected a trademark Dhoni finish. It was the definitive blow that ensured Rajasthan Royals walked away with a well-earned victory.
CSK's decision to promote Dhoni from No. 9, after receiving heavy criticism for his lower-order role in the previous match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was expected to provide more batting stability. Yet, the change did little to alter the outcome.
Despite his presence, Dhoni found himself in an all-too-familiar situation -- walking in with CSK needing a rescue act. His first few deliveries were watchfully played, followed by a couple of big hits that briefly revived hopes.
However, when it mattered most, he couldn't provide the finishing flourish he once delivered with ease.
This latest failure at No. 7 raises serious questions about CSKs batting approach. The team's middle order faltered yet again, leaving too much for the lower order to chase.
Ruturaj Gaikwad's resilient 63 had held the innings together, but the lack of support from Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar and Shivam Dube meant the pressure eventually landed on Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.
While Dhoni's finishing heroics remain a cherished part of IPL history, this match proved that time is catching up. His ability to single-handedly turn games is diminishing, and CSK may have to rethink their batting strategy moving forward.
With consecutive defeats pushing them down to 7 in the points table, CSK must find solutions quickly before their campaign spirals further.
The pressing question now is: Will CSK continue to back Dhoni at No. 7, or will they make a bold tactical shift to strengthen their middle order?
With an important clash against Delhi Capitals coming up, the team's response could define their season ahead.
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