Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a franchise with five IPL titles, have failed in IPL 2025. Despite being one of the most successful teams in T20 history, they were the first side to be eliminated from playoff contention this year. The team suffered a major setback when their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out after fracturing his elbow, leading to MS Dhoni‘s return as skipper.

Tom Moody, the former Australian all-rounder, has been outspoken in his criticism of Dhoni’s performances this season. Moody remarked that Dhoni no longer displays the same level of energy and impact that he had in previous years, particularly during his World Cup-winning campaigns.

Dhoni was slammed for batting slot at the start of the ongoing season. Dhoni batted at No. 9, a decision that attracted criticism from cricket pundits. Dhoni has also struggled to finish games.

“Every team reflects the qualities of their leader, and he has been an influential leader for a long time. We all have a passion within us, and sometimes we need to recognise when it’s beginning to fade or, if not, completely extinguish,” Tom Moody said on ESPN Cricinfo.

“I just don’t know whether what I am seeing is correct, but certainly my observation is that the spark is not there that I have seen in previous years,” he added.