MS Dhoni’s Pinnacle Remains an Unbeaten 84 Against RCB
Patiala, 03 April (Sports Desk)
Indian cricket icon MS Dhoni, a stalwart of the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception, has delivered countless memorable performances across his illustrious career. With a record-breaking 250+ matches—the most by any player in the league—Dhoni has amassed over 5,000 runs at an average nearing 40, including 24 half-centuries. The joint-most successful captain in IPL history with five titles for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), “Captain Cool” has often led by example with match-defining innings. His highest IPL score, an unbeaten 84 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2019, stands as a testament to his brilliance, even though it came in a losing effort.
Dhoni’s Top IPL Performances
Here’s a look at MS Dhoni’s top 10 highest scores in the IPL:
| No. | Score | Team | Opposition | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 84* (48) | CSK | RCB | M Chinnaswamy Stadium | April 21, 2019 |
| 2 | 79* (44) | CSK | KXIP | Punjab Cricket Association Stadium | April 15, 2018 |
| 3 | 75* (46) | CSK | RR | MA Chidambaram Stadium | March 31, 2019 |
| 4 | 70* (40) | CSK | RCB | M Chinnaswamy Stadium | May 22, 2011 |
| 5 | 70* (34) | CSK | RCB | M Chinnaswamy Stadium | April 25, 2018 |
| 6 | 67* (37) | CSK | SRH | MA Chidambaram Stadium | April 25, 2013 |
| 7 | 66* (33) | CSK | KKR | Eden Gardens | March 16, 2010 |
| 8 | 65 (30) | CSK | RCB | M Chinnaswamy Stadium | April 28, 2008 |
| 9 | 64* (32) | RPS | KXIP | Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium | May 21, 2016 |
| 10 | 63* (31) | CSK | DD | MA Chidambaram Stadium | May 12, 2011 |
The 84* Masterclass: A Thrilling Yet Heartbreaking Night
Dhoni’s highest IPL score of 84 not out came on April 21, 2019, at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium against RCB. After CSK won the toss and opted to bowl, their bowlers restricted RCB to 161/7, setting up a chase of 162. However, CSK’s batting faltered early, slumping to 28/4 after 5.5 overs. Enter MS Dhoni.
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Walking in under pressure, Dhoni announced his intent with a boundary off his first ball. He forged a vital 55-run partnership with Ambati Rayudu, steadying the ship and reigniting CSK’s hopes. Rayudu’s departure didn’t deter Dhoni, who then stitched together key stands with Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo, bringing CSK within striking distance of the target.
The climax arrived in the final over, with CSK needing 26 runs and Dhoni facing Umesh Yadav. What followed was vintage Dhoni: a four, three towering sixes, and a quick two, reducing the equation to two runs off the last ball. With the Chinnaswamy crowd on edge, Dhoni’s heroics seemed poised to seal a famous win. But fate had other plans—Shardul Thakur was run out on the final delivery, handing RCB a dramatic one-run victory. Dhoni remained unbeaten on 84 off 48 balls, his knock studded with five fours and seven sixes at a strike rate of 175, yet it wasn’t enough to cross the line.
Legacy of Captain Cool
Despite the heartbreak of that 2019 thriller, Dhoni’s 84* remains a highlight of his IPL career, showcasing his ability to single-handedly turn games. His 24 half-centuries—including multiple unbeaten efforts against RCB—underline his consistency and clutch performances. Whether it’s the 79* against Kings XI Punjab in 2018 or the 75* against Rajasthan Royals in 2019, Dhoni’s knack for finishing games or setting up thrilling finales has cemented his status as an IPL legend.
As the only player to feature in every IPL season, Dhoni’s record of over 5,000 runs and five titles with CSK speaks volumes about his impact. While his highest score didn’t result in victory, it’s a reminder of why he’s revered as “Captain Cool”—calm under pressure, explosive when needed, and always a leader.
