MS Dhoni Becomes First Cricketer With 200 Dismissals in IPL
MS Dhoni has done it again. On April 15, 2025, at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, the legendary Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain made IPL history by becoming the first-ever player to reach the milestone of 200 dismissals. In a league filled with top-tier talent and nail-biting matches, Dhoni continues to stand tall as one of the most iconic figures the sport has seen. At 43 years old, his exceptional wicketkeeping skills remain unmatched, and with this record, he has further cemented his place as the greatest wicketkeeper in IPL history.
The Historic Match: CSK vs LSG at Ekana Stadium
The match between Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants was not just another IPL fixture—it became a historic one. In the 14th over of the LSG innings, Ayush Badoni tried to step out of his crease to tackle Ravindra Jadeja’s spin. But Dhoni, with his trademark lightning-fast reflexes, collected the ball cleanly and dismantled the stumps within seconds. The stumping was precise and clean, and the third umpire confirmed it after replays showed Dhoni’s gloves were well behind the stumps. That stumping was his 46th in IPL history and marked his 200th dismissal in the tournament.
Later in the same game, Dhoni added one more to his tally by taking a sharp catch behind the stumps to dismiss LSG’s skipper Rishabh Pant, who was fighting hard for his side with a well-made 63. With that catch, Dhoni took his total number of IPL dismissals to 201—comprising 155 catches and 46 stumpings. These numbers are not just stats; they are a testament to the consistency, fitness, and sharp cricketing mind of the former Indian captain.
A Look Back at Dhoni’s Incredible Wicketkeeping Journey
Dhoni’s journey in the Indian Premier League began in 2008, and over the years, he has been the heart and soul of CSK. While fans have often praised his leadership, finishing abilities with the bat, and calm demeanor under pressure, his skills behind the stumps have often flown under the radar. But the numbers tell a different story. No other wicketkeeper comes close to Dhoni in terms of dismissals.
As of now, Dinesh Karthik is second on the list with 182 dismissals, followed by AB de Villiers (126), Robin Uthappa (124), Wriddhiman Saha (118), and even non-wicketkeeper Virat Kohli with 116 fielding dismissals. The gap between Dhoni and the rest reflects his dominance and consistency across seasons.
His contribution as a wicketkeeper goes far beyond the statistics. Whether it’s smart glovework, timely appeals, field placements, or his ability to spot minute mistakes from batters, Dhoni’s presence behind the stumps adds an irreplaceable strategic layer to CSK’s gameplay. His famous no-look run-outs, last-ball stumpings, and street-smart cricketing sense have led to several match-turning moments over the years.
Impact on the Match and CSK’s Performance
In the match against Lucknow Super Giants, Dhoni’s heroics behind the stumps played a key role in restricting LSG to a total of 166/7 in their 20 overs. While Pant’s half-century helped LSG build a respectable score, the timely wickets and tight fielding by CSK, guided by Dhoni, ensured they stayed in control.
CSK, led from behind the stumps rather than in front as captain this season, showed a rejuvenated spirit. Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad were instrumental with the bat as they helped end CSK’s five-match losing streak. But the atmosphere of the match, the crowd’s chants, and the excitement all revolved around one name—MS Dhoni. Every stumping, every gesture, and every movement drew cheers, and fans knew they were witnessing a living legend in action.
Dhoni’s Longevity and Fitness at Age 43
At 43, playing your 271st IPL match and still performing at the highest level is nothing short of extraordinary. Dhoni’s fitness regime, diet, and mental preparation continue to inspire young cricketers across the world. In an era where players often retire early due to burnout or injuries, Dhoni stands as an example of sustained excellence and smart career management.
His ability to maintain top-level reflexes, sharp decision-making, and consistent match presence is proof that age is just a number. Even as questions swirl about his retirement, Dhoni has remained focused on giving his best for the team and entertaining fans who turn up in huge numbers to catch a glimpse of their “Thala.”
Legacy Beyond Numbers: Dhoni’s Place in IPL Folklore
MS Dhoni’s influence on the IPL goes far beyond statistics. He has been a leader, a mentor, a finisher, and most importantly, the embodiment of cricketing intelligence. Under his captaincy, CSK has lifted the IPL trophy multiple times and has consistently been one of the top-performing franchises.
This 200-dismissal milestone is another feather in his already decorated cap, but perhaps more than anything, it reflects his enduring commitment to the game. As players come and go, Dhoni remains a constant—adapting, evolving, and leading in his own quiet way. Whether it’s a sharp stumping, a tactical field change, or just his presence in the dugout, Dhoni continues to shape the narrative of IPL cricket.
For the fans, this record is a reminder of why they fell in love with Dhoni in the first place. For the opponents, it’s a warning that even at 43, “Captain Cool” can change the game in a flash. And for cricket history, it is yet another reason why MS Dhoni’s name will forever be written in golden letters.
