As IPL 2025 ignites, MS Dhoni’s legacy in the IPL shines brighter than ever at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
From his legendary helicopter shots to hilarious on-field moments, “Thala” blends cricketing genius with playful charm.
Follow BRG365 for more stories of Dhoni’s dual magic in the IPL.
The Helicopter Shot
No shot in IPL history is as synonymous with MS Dhoni as the helicopter shot—a wristy, bottom-hand-driven flick that turns yorkers into sixes.
Developed with childhood friend Santosh Lal, this stroke became Dhoni’s signature weapon in the IPL, especially at Chennai Super Kings’
(CSK) home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where tight bowling and humidity demand innovation.
The Science Behind the Stroke
| Technique | Dhoni’s Execution | Impact on Bowlers |
| Stance | Slightly open, feet shoulder-width apart | Balances power for explosive wrist rotation |
| Footwork | Front foot forward, back foot anchored | Generates momentum to meet full-length deliveries |
| Follow-Through | Circular bat swing overhead | Maximizes contact time for towering sixes |
IPL Moments That Defined the Shot
2015 vs. Lasith Malinga
At Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium, Dhoni faced Malinga’s near-perfect yorker in the IPL.
With a textbook helicopter shot, he sent the ball into the stands, showcasing how he turns even the most challenging deliveries into scoring opportunities.
2019 at MA Chidambaram Stadium
Against Mumbai Indians, Dhoni smashed three consecutive yorkers from Jasprit Bumrah for sixes, a display of mastery that left the home crowd in awe and reminded rivals of his unmatched ability in the IPL.
When “Captain Cool” Became the Prankster
While Dhoni is famed for his calm leadership in the IPL, his playful side has gifted fans unforgettable humorous moments, often unfolding during CSK’s home games or high-stakes clashes.
Pranking Ravindra Jadeja (IPL 2018)
During a crucial playoff match vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad in Pune, Dhoni fielded a ground ball and pretended to throw it to Jadeja, who was charging in from midwicket.
At the last second, he held the ball, leaving Jadeja stumbling and the stadium in laughter. The prank showed Dhoni’s ability to lighten the mood even in intense IPL moments.
Mic’d-Up Banter with Kevin Pietersen (IPL 2017)
In a CSK vs. Mumbai Indians clash, Pietersen joked over the team mic that he was a better golfer than Dhoni.
Dhoni’s quick reply—“He’s still my first Test wicket”—went viral, highlighting his sharp wit and the friendly rivalry that makes the IPL entertaining.
Dodging a Fan at Nagpur (IPL 2019)
A fan ran onto the field during an IPL game, chasing Dhoni for a hug.
The usually composed skipper playfully zigzagged across the pitch before stopping to share a laugh and a handshake, showing his relatable side and connection with fans.
Dwayne Bravo’s Chest-Bump Comedy (IPL 2016)
When Bravo’s delivery hit Dhoni’s chest, the West Indian bowler mockingly puffed his chest in a playful challenge.
Dhoni mirrored the gesture, sparking a grinning standoff that showcased the camaraderie between rivals in the IPL.
MS Dhoni: A Legacy Woven in Skill and Joy
Dhoni’s journey in the IPL is a tale of two faces: the clinical finisher who redefined death-over batting with the helicopter shot, and the joker who brought laughter to the field.
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, with its sea of yellow fans, has been the perfect stage for both sides of his persona.
Here, every helicopter shot is a masterpiece, and every prank is a shared memory for IPL fans.
Final Thought
MS Dhoni’s influence in the IPL goes beyond runs and titles. His helicopter shots showcase cricketing innovation, while funny antics make him a fan favorite.
As IPL 2025 progresses, he proves the league blends competition with awe-inspiring and joyful moments, securing his legacy as both a legend and entertainer.
Also Read:
