In an impressive display of leadership, MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their tenth Indian Premier League (IPL) final with a 15-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 1. While Dhoni’s decision-making received praise, a controversial time-wasting incident marred the match. The Titans, however, still have a chance to face CSK in the final if they can defeat the winners of the Eliminator between Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.
During the 15th over of GT’s chase, Dhoni was engaged in discussion with the umpires, causing a delay. It was later revealed that this was a deliberate strategy employed by Dhoni to waste time. CSK players surrounded the officials, and play was held up for nearly four minutes until Matheesha Pathirana was allowed to bowl his second over.
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The incident drew criticism from fans and even batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who had previously sought Dhoni’s autograph. Gavaskar expressed his disapproval, emphasizing the importance of accepting the umpire’s decision, even in high-pressure situations.
https://twitter.com/NihariVsKorma/status/1661235697380990976?s=20
Here is how the fans reacted to Dhoni’s bizarre time-waste tactic in the CSK vs GT IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 match
MS “The Umpire Bully” Dhoni
— ParteekNotPrateek (@randomcricfacts) May 23, 2023
If this is in the rule its a Bizarre rule. If this is not in the rule then why Dhoni was allowed to stop the play by Umpires ? We do not expect such things from Captain like MS Dhoni. (2/2)#CSKvsGT #iplfinal #IPL2O23
— Pratik Pathare (@PratikTwits) May 23, 2023
Pathirana was out of the field for more than 9 minutes and came suddenly to bowl. Here the rule is that Pathirana should present atleast 9 minutes on the field to bowl his over but what Dhoni was chatting with umpires??
This isn't acceptable at all. pic.twitter.com/NML3LikBc3— Priyansh (@priyansh_45) May 23, 2023
Ms dhoni vs umpire 🔥🔥
captain cool lost his coolness dady issue again #CSKvGT #qua pic.twitter.com/F0UoIrgkBv— Somnath Chakraborty (@Somnath44333169) May 23, 2023
Despite the controversy, Pathirana performed well, taking two wickets and conceding 37 runs as Gujarat was bowled out for 157 in the final ball of their innings. CSK emerged victorious, securing their place in yet another IPL final. Ruturaj Gaikwad was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knock of 60 off 44 balls. The Chennai Super Kings showcased their dominance, outplaying the defending champions Gujarat Titans on their path to the final.
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Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg also reacted to the incident and wrote: “Dhoni using his presence to full effect, luring the umpires into a 4 minute discussion causing time to run out for Pathirana to bowl after an extended break off the field. Umpires laughing over the incident rather than taking control of the situation is not good enough.”
Dhoni using his presence to full effect, luring the umpires into a 4 minute discussion causing time to run out for Pathirana to bowl after an extended break off the field. Umpires laughing over the incident rather than taking control of the situation is not good enough. #CSKvsGT
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) May 24, 2023
