The iconic Dhoni handshake moment once again took center stage after the high-voltage IPL 2025 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Chepauk. While RCB emerged victorious by 50 runs, ending their 17-year drought at CSK’s home ground, all eyes were still on MS Dhoni, who continues to command unmatched respect across teams and fans alike.
Dhoni Batting at No. 9 – Still the Center of Attention
A never ending story 😊
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 28, 2025
Last over 🤝 MS Dhoni superhits 🔥
Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/I7maHMwxDS #TATAIPL | #CSKvRCB | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/j5USqXvf7r
Even as the match was slipping away from CSK, with the team needing 98 runs from 28 balls and only three wickets in hand, the crowd roared in unison when Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 9. The scoreline didn’t matter. For fans and fellow players, it was about witnessing Dhoni in action. He remained unbeaten on 20 off 16 balls and struck back-to-back sixes after being tested with a bouncer by Krunal Pandya. That brief counter-attack added some fight to an otherwise forgettable outing for CSK.
✌ in ✌ for @RCBTweets 🥳
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 28, 2025
Plenty to celebrate for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they beat #CSK and add 2️⃣ more points to their account! 🙌🙌
Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/I7maHMwxDS #TATAIPL | #CSKvRCB pic.twitter.com/WnXJJhTuVM
Krunal Pandya’s Gesture and the Dhoni Handshake Moment
The post-match scenes were a beautiful example of how MS Dhoni’s stature transcends team rivalries. Krunal Pandya, who earlier tried to surprise Dhoni with a bouncer, warmly hugged the legend right after the final ball. But it was the Dhoni handshake with RCB captain Rajat Patidar that caught the attention of fans online. Patidar removed his cap before extending his hand – a subtle yet powerful tribute to Dhoni’s legacy.
This Dhoni handshake was a symbolic exchange that reflected the immense admiration the new generation of players has for him. It wasn’t just about formalities—it was about honouring a cricketing icon.
Kohli Joins in for a Warm Embrace
As if the symbolic Dhoni handshake wasn’t enough, Virat Kohli made the moment even more special. After a brief handshake, Kohli shared a warm, long embrace with Dhoni that clearly showed the bond the two Indian legends share. The image of Kohli and Dhoni hugging has since gone viral, drawing emotional reactions from fans.
RCB’s Dominant Win – But the Spotlight Stayed on Dhoni
Despite RCB dominating the contest, the Dhoni handshake was one of the most talked-about moments of the evening. RCB posted 196/7 on the back of a crucial 51 from Rajat Patidar. Although Kohli struggled for rhythm, scoring 31 off 30, the Bengaluru bowlers made life miserable for CSK.
Josh Hazlewood struck early blows in the powerplay, dismissing both Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rahul Tripathi, while Yash Dayal chipped in with two important wickets—Shivam Dube and Rachin Ravindra. CSK’s top order crumbled, and despite Ravindra’s 41 and Jadeja’s late contribution, they finished at 146-8.
Still, it was the Dhoni handshake with Patidar, Krunal’s hug, and Kohli’s embrace that formed the emotional high point of the night.
The Dhoni Handshake – A Tradition of Respect
What stood out even more than the match result was how the Dhoni handshake has evolved into a post-match ritual filled with reverence. It’s no longer a mere gesture—it’s a tradition. Whether it’s young guns like Patidar or seasoned stars like Kohli, everyone seems to recognize what that moment means. It is respect, admiration, and a celebration of Dhoni’s undying impact on the game.
Final Thoughts
As RCB continues their winning run in IPL 2025 and CSK regroups, one thing remains unchanged: the aura of MS Dhoni. The Dhoni handshake moments after each match serve as a reminder of the legacy he has built—not just as a cricketer, but as a leader who continues to inspire.
Even in defeat, Dhoni walks off with heads turning, hands being shaken with reverence, and hearts being touched across team lines. And that’s why the Dhoni handshake will always be more than just protocol—it’s poetry in motion at the end of every game he plays.
