In a thrilling display of power hitting, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper and cricketing legend MS Dhoni wowed spectators with a remarkable hat-trick of sixes during the Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) at Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Dhoni’s entrance in the final over, with CSK at 186/4 following Daryl Mitchell’s dismissal, set the stage for a spectacular finish. Fondly known as ‘Thala’, Dhoni showcased his mastery, dispatching three towering sixes – one over long-on, another over long-off, and the third over square leg. This explosive batting spree propelled CSK to a formidable total of over 200 runs. Dhoni’s blitzkrieg of 20 runs in just four balls, including three sixes, boasted a staggering strike rate of 500.
The crowd erupted in euphoria with each of Dhoni’s colossal strikes, transcending the rivalry between two five-time IPL champions to collectively celebrate the brilliance of an icon. Amidst the fervor, one fortunate fan had the privilege of a personal interaction with Dhoni, who graciously gifted the match-ball as a token of appreciation.
Dhoni’s prowess in the final over of IPL innings is nothing short of legendary. Having faced 309 balls in the final over throughout his IPL career, he has amassed an impressive 756 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 244.66, peppering the boundary with 51 fours and 64 sixes.
This season, Dhoni’s dominance in the final over continues, having faced 12 balls and plundering 41 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 341.66. His aggressive batting style saw two boundaries and five towering sixes in this crucial phase.
In the ongoing IPL campaign, Dhoni has displayed consistency, remaining unbeaten in all four innings and amassing 59 runs at a formidable strike rate of 236.00. His highlight performance includes a blistering 37* off 16 balls against Delhi Capitals, where he dispatched Anrich Nortje for 20 runs in the final over.
With an illustrious IPL career spanning 256 matches, Dhoni boasts 5,141 runs at an average of 39.24 and a commendable strike rate of 136.58, featuring 24 fifties and an unbeaten 84* as his best score.
In the match against MI, CSK, after being put into bat, posted a commanding total of 206/4 in 20 overs, courtesy of vital contributions from Ruturaj Gaikwad (69), Shivam Dube (66*), and Dhoni’s electrifying cameo.
MI’s bowling effort was led by Hardik Pandya, claiming 2 wickets for 43 runs, supported by Shreyas Gopal and Gerald Coetzee, who chipped in with a wicket each.