The Gujarat Titans took a big hit in their chase for a Top 2 finish in the IPL 2025 playoffs after losing to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. They currently sit at the top of the table with 18 points from 14 matches. But with Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru still having one game left, their chances are no longer in their control. If RCB wins against Lucknow Super Giants, they’ll definitely make it to the Top 2. In another match, if PBKS beats MI, they’ll secure a spot in the Top 2 as well. But if MI comes out on top over PBKS, they’ll end the game with 18 points too, just like GT, but with a better Net Run Rate.
On the other hand, MS Dhoni hasn’t confirmed if he’ll keep playing in the IPL. He mentioned he’d like to take some time off before making any decisions about his future. He capped his brief stint as captain by leading CSK to a solid 83-run victory over the Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.
While CSK finished their last league match on a high note, Dhoni’s performance this season was not quite what fans expected. He scored 196 runs in 14 matches with an average of 24.50, compared to last season’s strike rate of around 220.55. Dhoni said he has time to think things over and will make a decision sometime in the coming months. If this was indeed his last game, fans might be disappointed he didn’t get a chance to bat in his familiar outfit.
“I’ve got 4-5 months to decide, there’s no rush. I need to keep my body fit. Cricketers shouldn’t retire just because of performance; some would quit at 22. I’ll head back to Ranchi and enjoy some bike rides. I’m not saying I’m done or that I’m definitely coming back. I have time to think it over,” Dhoni said after the match.
This season was tough for the five-time champions, ending with their first-ever last-place finish in the points table. With only four wins, CSK will aim to bounce back in 2026. Dhoni reflected on the season, sharing how they started with four games in Chennai and felt the batting could improve. “Ruturaj doesn’t need to worry much for next season. I sit at the back, and he’s next to me, exactly 25 years younger. It makes me feel old,” he added.