[WATCH] IPL 2025: Navjot Singh Sidhu takes dig at MS Dhoni for free-hit blunder

In Match No.17 of the IPL 2025 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC) at Chepauk, what grabbed eyeballs wasn’t just CSK’s third straight defeat but a moment of failure from their legendary finisher, MS Dhoni. The match ended in disappointment for the home fans as CSK fell short by 25 runs while chasing 184. However, a missed free hit opportunity by Dhoni was criticized by Navjot Singh Sidhu.

Chasing 184 after DC posted 183/6, CSK were in trouble after losing five wickets for just 74. Efforts by Vijay Shankar (69* off 54) and MS Dhoni (30* off 26) raised hopes, but the side fell behind in most of the chase. However, the free hit moment came in the 14th over.

Dhoni, facing a free-hit delivery from Mohit Sharma, was expected to make full use of it and smash it for a six. However, the 43-year-old failed to connect the short-pitch delivery, resulting in a dot ball. Following this, Navjot Singh Sidhu didn’t hold back in giving his take on the missed chance.

"If he doesn't go now, then when? Le bhaiya, ye toh phush pataka nikla (that tund out to be a blank fire)," Sidhu said on air.

Watch the video below: 

Meanwhile, in the game, the Delhi-based team looked in full control since the start. Earlier, batting the side managed to reach 183, thanks to KL Rahul (77), Abishek Porel (33), and valuable contributions from the middle-order, which propelled them to a defendable score. 

In reply, Shankar and Dhoni's partnership was the only talking point as none of the CSK batters stayed long enough at the crease, resulting in a 25-run defeat. Delhi captain Axar Patel was all smiles after the game, winning three in three. 

"It's great to win three in a row. We want to have an impact, whether big or small. That's the plan, and it has been successful so far. I was saving myself [and hence bowled only one over], as I have injured my finger! Everything is running nicely. But as a captain, I'll say that we're doing well in the field, but also dropping catches. The momentum can shift any time," Patel said.