At 43, most athletes hang up their boots. But MS Dhoni, the ever-unflappable talisman of Indian cricket, continues to carve new milestones in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the same calmness and conviction that defined his youth. In the 2025 season, Dhoni has not only led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) through pivotal moments but also broken age-defying records and further etched his name into cricketing folklore. From becoming the oldest Player of the Match to crossing 200 IPL dismissals, Dhoni's influence remains unparalleled—both behind the stumps and in the dressing room.

Oldest Player to Win Player of the Match in IPL History

At 43 years and 280 days, Dhoni became the oldest player ever to clinch the Player of the Match award in IPL history. He accomplished this against Lucknow Super Giants, guiding CSK to a pivotal win with a blistering 26* off just 11 deliveries. This not only broke CSK’s five-match losing streak but also shattered Pravin Tambe’s previous record of 42 years and 208 days.

First Wicketkeeper to Cross 200 IPL Dismissals

Dhoni etched yet another first into the IPL record books by becoming the first wicketkeeper to reach 200 dismissals. His tally—comprising 155 catches and 46 stumpings—cements his reputation as the most decorated wicketkeeper in IPL history. No other gloveman comes close to this benchmark in terms of longevity, precision, or game awareness.

Oldest Captain in IPL History

When Dhoni resumed captaincy for CSK in 2025, he did so at 43 years and 278 days, making him the oldest skipper in the tournament's history. Surpassing Adam Gilchrist’s previous record, Dhoni didn’t just occupy the role—he revitalized the team’s momentum with strategic brilliance and composure.

Summary of 2025 Milestones

Career Highlights Across Formats

MS Dhoni’s legend is not confined to the IPL. His international record is a treasury of firsts and rare feats:

Only captain to win all three ICC titles: T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011), Champions Trophy (2013).

First Indian wicketkeeper with 4,000+ Test runs and record dismissals in Tests and ODIs.

Most international matches as captain (332) and over 10,000 ODI runs with a 50+ average.

ICC ODI Player of the Year (2008, 2009): First to win the honor twice.

Decorated with Padma Bhushan (2018), Padma Shri (2009), and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2008).

Domestic Glory and IPL Dominance

Dhoni’s domestic and IPL contributions are equally stellar:

Five-time IPL Champion as CSK captain: 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023.

First captain to win 100 IPL matches and most matches as captain—over 226.

Two-time CLT20 winner: 2010 and 2014.

Over 5,000 IPL runs as a wicketkeeper and the most fielding dismissals in league history.

A Leader Who Transcends the Game

MS Dhoni’s leadership in the IPL is the stuff of sporting legend:

Tactical Visionary: Known for out-of-the-box decisions under pressure—whether bowling Joginder Sharma in the 2007 final or promoting himself in the 2011 World Cup final.

Mental Mentor: Even when not captain, Dhoni's “zen-like” influence shapes the team’s character. He’s the go-to mentor in high-pressure moments.

Master of Comebacks: His return to captaincy in 2025 immediately reignited CSK’s floundering season, showcasing his irreplaceable impact.

Legacy Builder: Most wins, most titles, most trust. His record is likely to stand for years.

“His influence has been there all the time... It’s the calmness that you see out there—that’s how he teaches you to play the game.” — Eric Simmons, CSK Bowling Coach

A Timeless Icon in the Game’s Most Dynamic Format

The 2025 IPL season has once again affirmed MS Dhoni’s eternal relevance in cricket’s fast-paced format. With age-defying performances, leadership brilliance, and historic wicketkeeping stats, Dhoni is not just playing the game—he’s redefining its boundaries. Whether behind the stumps, in front of the cameras, or simply walking out to bat with a calm stare, Dhoni remains a colossus in yellow. And for millions of fans, his presence means one thing: never count CSK out while Mahi is around.