"Wicketkeeping for 20 overs but not batting for 10?": Manoj Tiwary Takes a Bold Swipe at MS Dhoni's IPL Form

MS Dhoni, once hailed as the ultimate finisher, is now facing tough questions — not from fans alone, but from former teammates too. After a disappointing performance against Delhi Capitals, where Chennai Super Kings fell short by 25 runs, former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has publicly questioned Dhoni's current place in the IPL.

"2023 Was the Right Time to Retire" – Tiwary's Blunt Take

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Tiwary didn’t hold back, saying:

“If I’m being strict, forgive me — fans may get angry. But Dhoni should have retired after 2023 when CSK won the title. That was the perfect ending.”

He further expressed disappointment over the decline in Dhoni’s impact:

“The name and respect Dhoni earned — it’s beginning to fade. Fans still hope for magic, but it’s not the same anymore. And when that spark is missing, it’s better to walk away.”

Questioning the Double Standard: "20 Overs Keeping, But Only 10 Overs Batting?"

Tiwary also raised a pointed concern about Dhoni's fitness claims. Referring to comments by CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, he said:

“Fleming says Dhoni can’t bat for more than 10 overs. But if you can keep wickets for 20 overs — crouch, dive, stand — then why not bat too? That logic doesn’t sit right.”

The Match That Sparked It All

In the match against Delhi:

• CSK needed 110 runs from 56 balls when Dhoni came to bat.
• Dhoni scored 30 off 26 balls, striking at just 115, leaving fans disappointed.
• Vijay Shankar, who played a gritty innings of *69, couldn’t get support from the other end.

Despite the crowd’s hopes and even the presence of Dhoni’s parents in the stadium, the spark was missing.

Fan Backlash and Growing Debate

The loss has stirred debate over whether CSK should move beyond Dhoni and focus on grooming a new finisher. While some fans remain loyal, others feel it's time for Dhoni to gracefully step aside — especially after five IPL titles and a legacy that’s unmatched.