"He is ageing": K Srikkanth says Dhoni must step away following poor IPL 2025 season

The Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) 2025 IPL campaign has ended in heartbreak and frustration, once again reigniting debate about the future of one of cricket’s greatest icons – MS Dhoni. With CSK languishing at the bottom of the points table after managing just three wins from 13 matches, many are questioning whether the 43-year-old veteran should finally hang up his boots.

Among the loudest voices is former Indian opener and ex-chief selector Kris Srikkanth, who did not mince words when he addressed Dhoni’s declining form and CSK’s fading fortunes on his YouTube channel.

"Time to move on," says Srikkanth

“Dhoni is ageing; you can’t expect miracles from him,” said Srikkanth. “But at the same time, you can’t keep walking in and underperforming. If you’re not able to do it, then maybe it’s time to say so and step away.”

Srikkanth’s blunt assessment comes amid rising scrutiny over Dhoni’s role within the team. The former skipper has not captained this season but has remained the spiritual leader and a fixture in the playing XI as wicketkeeper and lower-order batter. However, with CSK failing to reach the playoffs for the second year in a row, even fans are beginning to ask the difficult questions.

Dhoni’s struggles this season have been evident. Battling persistent knee issues, he has managed only one noteworthy innings – a 26-run cameo against the Lucknow Super Giants. In most matches, including a forgettable 16 off 17 balls against the Rajasthan Royals, Dhoni has looked far from his vintage self.

Srikkanth also pointed out Dhoni’s declining physical sharpness. “His reflexes have slowed down. His knees aren’t the same. Spinners, who he once dispatched into the top tier of the stands, are now tying him down,” he observed. “It’s a painful sight because this is a man who once redefined the finisher’s role.”

The early injury to newly appointed captain Ruturaj Gaikwad left CSK scrambling for direction, and their seasoned players couldn’t step up when it mattered. Dhoni, often hailed for his game-reading ability and calmness under pressure, was looked upon as a guiding force. But this time, even his experience wasn’t enough to steady the ship.