Fans take a dig at MS Dhoni, Calling him ‘selfish’ as he denies single to Daryl Mitchell

MS Dhoni, the legendary batsman of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), faced backlash from fans about his batting selection in their last match against Punjab Kings (PBKS). With CSK needing a run during the final over, Dhoni surprised many by rejecting a single and shouting at his partner Daryl Mitchell to go back to the non-striker’s end.

Also Read: Speedster Mayank Yadav doubtful for remainder of IPL 2024, Likely to get BCCI contract

While Dhoni is known for his composure under pressure, the scene of him denying a single to Daryl Mitchell has shocked fans.

Facing Arshdeep Singh in the final over, Dhoni hit the second ball closer to deep cover but opted not to run. Eager to contribute, Daryl Mitchell went for a single, touches down the crease at Dhoni’s end and safely returned to his end. The act sparked a debate, with several people thinking that Dhoni didn’t believe in Mitchell’s talent.

However, Dhoni was able to destroy the barriers in the next two balls and silence some of the critics at the Chepauk Stadium. He smashed the next two balls for a four and a six. Still, fans on social media were not satisfied. They considered Mitchell as a dangerous striker, especially when he has a half-century for CSK.

MS Dhoni denied to run 👀
Daryl Mitchell literally ran 2 Runs 😅
Next Ball, MS hits a huge SIX 👏

If this has been done by Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, then people start calling them Selfish 😳

What's your take on this 🤔 #CSKvPBKS #CSKvsPBKS #SRHvsRR pic.twitter.com/ElvrInMDaI

— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) May 2, 2024

History of MS Dhoni with similar decisions

This is not the first time that Dhoni has refused to take a single. In 2014, in a T20 match against England, he denied a single to Ambati Rayudu, leading to India’s defeat. This incident too has raised questions about Dhoni’s motives – has it turned into a lust for limelight or true self-image?

Dhoni’s decision to deny a single to Daryl Mitchell reignited the controversy over his batting choices at crucial moments. Some fans argue that it is self-centered and favors personal glory over the needs of the team. Others defend him, suggesting it’s a calculated approach based primarily on his own batting.

Adding fuel to the fire is the fact that Mitchell, posted at number eight, is a known massive forward. His stunning T20 stats and current form for CSK make Dhoni’s pick to keep him on strike all the more difficult.

Another head-scratcher was Mitchell’s batting role itself. He was sent under far less aggressive players and his ability to hit with power was seen as underutilized.

The controversy surrounding MS Dhoni denying a single to Mitchell raises numerous questions. Was Dhoni trying to be a hero or was he practically accepting that he could finish it himself?

Only Dhoni and CSK have the answers. But one thing is certain: the incident sparked a heated debate about MS Dhoni’s mindset and decision-making under pressure, specifically in the twilight of his career.