MS Dhoni Breaks Pravin Tambe's Record to Become Oldest IPL Player of the Match

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni rolled back the years with a spectacular performance against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), earning the Player of the Match title in their IPL 2025 clash on April 14. Dhoni, aged 43 years and 280 days, delivered a match-winning cameo of 26 off 11 balls*, featuring four boundaries and a six, with a jaw-dropping strike rate of 236.36. The veteran’s effort helped CSK clinch a five-wicket victory at Lucknow’s Ekana Cricket Stadium.

MS Dhoni Breaks Pravin Tambe’s Record for Oldest POTM in IPL

By receiving the Player of the Match award, MS Dhoni surpassed the previous record held by Pravin Tambe, who won the honour at 42 years and 208 days during the 2014 IPL season. This latest achievement makes Dhoni the oldest player in IPL history to win the award.

Interestingly, the award came ahead of some stellar performances, including Noor Ahmed, who bowled a tight spell conceding only 13 runs in 4 overs. This also marked Dhoni’s first Player of the Match title since 2019, making the occasion even more special.

Oldest Players to Win Player of the Match in IPL

MS Dhoni Equals Virat Kohli in Player of the Match Tally

The victory also saw Dhoni tie with Virat Kohli as the Indian player with the second-most Player of the Match awards in IPL history. Both now have 18 POTM awards, trailing only Rohit Sharma, who leads with 19.

Most Player of the Match Awards by Indians in IPL

Dhoni as Captain: Most POTM Awards

With this latest recognition, Dhoni also holds the record for most POTM awards as an IPL captain (17 awards). He leads Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir, who are tied with 13 awards each.

CSK vs LSG 2025: Match Highlights

CSK Bowlers Restrict LSG to Modest Total

After opting to bowl first, CSK put on a disciplined performance to restrict LSG to 166/7. Despite a fighting knock of 63 off 49 balls by Rishabh Pant, the Super Giants struggled to build momentum, thanks to CSK's controlled bowling attack.

Solid Start and Finish from CSK Batters

In reply, CSK got off to a brisk start. Debutant Shaik Rasheed impressed with 27 off 19 balls, and Rachin Ravindra contributed 37 off 22, building a 52-run opening stand. While there was a middle-order wobble, Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 43 and Dhoni’s explosive cameo ensured a comfortable finish.

Dhoni Reflects on the Win

“As a bowling unit, we’ve done well. As a batting unit, we can do better,” Dhoni said during the post-match presentation.

Conclusion

MS Dhoni’s record-breaking performance in IPL 2025 not only sealed a win for CSK but also etched his name in history as the oldest player to claim the Player of the Match title. At 43, Dhoni displayed trademark composure and power-hitting, surpassing Pravin Tambe’s record and tying with Virat Kohli for the second-most POTM awards by an Indian in IPL.

His vintage knock reminds fans of his enduring impact and leadership qualities. With 17 awards as captain, Dhoni now stands alone as the most celebrated leader in IPL’s storied past. CSK’s dominant bowling and solid top-order display complement Dhoni’s brilliance, making them strong contenders this season.

As Dhoni continues to break records and defy age, his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest finishers and tacticians only grows stronger. This memorable night in Lucknow is a testament to the legend's unyielding spirit and unmatched cricketing acumen.