IPL 2025: MS Dhoni Breaks Suresh Raina’s Long-standing Record For CSK

In a historic moment for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Indian Premier League (IPL), legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni surpassed Suresh Raina to become CSK’s highest run-scorer in IPL history. The milestone came on March 28, 2025, during a high-voltage clash between CSK and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), Chennai.

While CSK endured a frustrating 50-run defeat at home, Dhoni’s landmark achievement provided fans with a reason to celebrate. The 43-year-old veteran, widely regarded as one of the greatest captains and finishers in the history of cricket, added yet another feather to his already illustrious cap.

MS Dhoni Goes Past Suresh Raina: A Milestone Moment

MS Dhoni entered the match needing just 19 runs to surpass Raina’s tally of 4,687 runs for CSK in the IPL. With his characteristic calmness and big-hitting ability, he achieved the feat in style, smashing a powerful six off Krunal Pandya in the final over.

Dhoni ended his innings with an unbeaten 30 runs off 16 balls, taking his overall IPL tally for CSK to 4,699 runs in 236 matches. This saw him go past Raina’s 4,687 runs in 176 matches, making Dhoni the highest-ever run-scorer for the franchise.

The record-breaking moment was met with thunderous applause from the Chepauk crowd, who have idolized Dhoni since the inception of the IPL in 2008. Even RCB players, including Virat Kohli, acknowledged Dhoni’s incredible achievement with a round of applause.

Despite CSK’s loss, the moment was a reminder of Dhoni’s enduring legacy and his continued ability to entertain fans with his explosive batting.

The Evolution of MS Dhoni in CSK’s Batting Order

Dhoni’s Journey in IPL

Dhoni’s IPL journey has been nothing short of legendary. Since CSK’s inception in 2008, he has been the face of the franchise, leading them to five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023) and establishing himself as one of the greatest captains in the history of the league.

Over the years, his role in CSK’s batting lineup has evolved significantly:

2008-2015: Dhoni played primarily as a middle-order batter and finisher, often taking the game deep before unleashing his signature six-hitting.
2016-2017: CSK was suspended, and Dhoni played for Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). His finishing abilities remained intact, though he briefly lost captaincy to Steve Smith.
2018-2021: Dhoni returned to CSK and led them to two IPL titles. However, his batting form slightly declined, with occasional match-winning cameos.
2022-2023: While Dhoni relinquished the captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja in 2022, he was reinstated mid-season. He played a limited batting role but remained CSK’s talisman.
2024-Present: Batting lower in the order, Dhoni has adapted his game, making the most of limited deliveries and still finishing with impactful cameos.

Batting at No. 9 – A Rare Sight

In this particular match against RCB, Dhoni batted at No. 9—only the second time in his IPL career that he has come in so late. While it limited his time at the crease, he still managed to entertain fans with a flurry of strokes.

Many cricket experts and former players, including Sunil Gavaskar and Matthew Hayden, questioned the decision to hold Dhoni back when the team needed a power-hitter in the middle overs. Despite coming in late, he showcased why he remains a lethal force in the shortest format.

CSK vs RCB: Match Recap – RCB Breaks 17-Year Chepauk Curse

RCB’s Dominant Batting Display

Batting first, RCB posted a formidable total of 197/6 in 20 overs, courtesy of a sensational knock from Virat Kohli (74 off 48) and Faf du Plessis (51 off 32). The duo put up an 85-run opening partnership, setting the platform for a big total.

Shivam Dube played a quickfire cameo of 33 off 15 balls, ensuring that RCB posted a challenging total on the board.

CSK’s Struggles in the Chase

Chasing 198, CSK got off to a disastrous start, losing Ruturaj Gaikwad (c) and Devon Conway inside the powerplay. The middle-order crumbled under pressure as Josh Hazlewood (3/21), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/26), and Yash Dayal (2/30) kept CSK on the back foot.

Despite MS Dhoni’s late fireworks, CSK could only manage 146/8, suffering a 50-run defeat. This marked RCB’s first victory at Chepauk since 2008, breaking a 17-year winless streak at the venue.

CSK’s All-Time Leading Run-Scorers in IPL

With this latest milestone, MS Dhoni now stands at the top of the CSK run-scoring charts, surpassing some of the greatest players to have represented the franchise:

Rank	Player	Matches	Runs	Average	Strike Rate
1	MS Dhoni	236	4,699	40.80	135.50
2	Suresh Raina	176	4,687	35.00	136.89
3	Faf du Plessis	92	2,721	34.94	131.58
4	Ruturaj Gaikwad	68	2,433	37.94	136.23
5	Michael Hussey	50	1,768	42.09	123.96

The numbers highlight the massive contributions of Dhoni and Raina, with both players playing a crucial role in CSK’s success over the years.

Dhoni’s Enduring Legacy and What’s Next for CSK

With IPL 2025 still in its early stages, CSK has plenty of room for improvement despite the setback against RCB. Dhoni’s leadership and finishing abilities will continue to be crucial for the team as they aim to bounce back.

What This Record Means for Dhoni’s Future

With 4,699 runs and counting, Dhoni’s latest achievement reinforces his undying impact on CSK and IPL cricket. At 43 years old, he remains one of the biggest fan-favorites, with stadiums erupting every time he steps onto the field.

Many cricket pundits believe IPL 2025 could be Dhoni’s final season, and if so, this record would be a perfect parting gift for the CSK faithful. However, his fitness, hunger, and performance suggest that he might still have a few more seasons left.

MS Dhoni’s latest milestone of becoming CSK’s all-time highest run-scorer is a testament to his consistency, longevity, and ability to adapt over the years. Surpassing Suresh Raina, who was once considered CSK’s backbone, is no small feat.

Even in the twilight of his career, Dhoni continues to captivate fans, set records, and remind the world why he is one of cricket’s greatest legends. While CSK will need to regroup after their loss to RCB, Dhoni’s achievements will remain a cherished moment in IPL 2025 and beyond.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on MS Dhoni and CSK, waiting to see if “Thala” has one last title-winning campaign left in him.

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