What advice did the experienced Dhoni give to young Vaibhav-Ayush?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a forgettable 2025 season in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The franchise, known for its consistency and dominance in earlier years, has faced an unusually tough time on the field. With 10 losses in 13 matches, this has become their worst performance in terms of defeats in a single season since their inception. Once known for their calm and calculated approach under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the team now finds itself at the bottom of the points table, with just one league match left to play. The latest blow came in their recent match against Rajasthan Royals, which added another loss to their already disappointing campaign.

However, the match between CSK and Rajasthan was not just about cricket scores and rankings. It offered a touching moment that resonated beyond the boundaries of the field. In this match, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi of Rajasthan Royals made headlines—not only for his cricketing brilliance but also for his humility and respect for the legends of the game. Facing off against 43-year-old Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the oldest player in the IPL, Vaibhav emerged as the star performer for Rajasthan. He top-scored for his team and played a crucial role in their victory over CSK, which added further pressure on the struggling Chennai side.

What truly captured everyone’s hearts was the gesture that followed the conclusion of the match. As players from both teams lined up for the traditional post-match handshake, young Vaibhav went one step further. He touched Dhoni’s feet in a gesture of deep respect and reverence for the legendary cricketer. The moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans and cricket pundits alike praising the young boy’s character and values. It served as a reminder that cricket is not just about runs and wickets, but also about the respect passed down from one generation to another.

Dhoni, known for his humility and mentoring attitude, did not let the gesture go unacknowledged. He took the opportunity to share some valuable advice with the next generation of cricketers. Speaking to commentator Ian Bishop after the match, Dhoni was asked what message he would give to young and upcoming batsmen like Vaibhav. Dhoni responded thoughtfully, stressing the importance of consistency over flamboyance.

“They need to try to be consistent. If they are only looking at a 200+ strike rate, then it becomes difficult to be consistent,” Dhoni explained. He emphasized that while young players today have immense power and can hit sixes at will, they should not allow growing expectations to create undue pressure. Instead, he advised them to stay grounded, learn from senior players and the coaching staff, and always pay close attention to match situations. This holistic approach, Dhoni believes, is the path to long-term success in professional cricket.

Even as CSK struggles this season, moments like these continue to define the franchise’s spirit. Dhoni’s role as a mentor and symbol of calmness remains intact despite the team’s failures. For Vaibhav Suryavanshi, this match will be remembered not only for his performance but also for his iconic moment with one of India’s greatest cricketing icons.

As Rajasthan Royals have now completed their last match of the tournament, attention turns to what lies ahead for Chennai Super Kings. With one final game remaining, pride and the hope of finishing the season on a positive note will be their primary motivation. Regardless of where they stand on the points table, scenes like Vaibhav bowing to Dhoni remind us of the lasting legacy and emotional fabric that make the IPL more than just a cricket league—it’s a celebration of sport, values, and timeless respect.