Beyond the Game
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Navjot Singh Sidhu Calls Ambati Rayudu “Girgit” in Clash Over MS Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings!

MS Dhoni smashed 27 off 12 balls with 3 sixes and 1 four in CSK’s 18-run loss to PBKS, drawing praise from Ambati Rayudu, who described Dhoni as “animated” and swinging a sword. Navjot Singh Sidhu admired his intent but urged reinvention. The commentary ended with a light-hearted banter between Rayudu and Sidhu over CSK and Dhoni’s legacy.

MS Dhoni’s explosive cameo sparked on-air banter between Rayudu and Sidhu.
Image: MS Dhoni’s explosive cameo sparked on-air banter between Rayudu and Sidhu / © Circle of Cricket

Over the years, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have built a reputation not just for their success on the field but also for the loyalty shared between the franchise and its players. Many cricketers who once wore the yellow jersey continue to support the team wholeheartedly, with special admiration for MS Dhoni, the former captain who has been the heart and soul of CSK since the beginning of the IPL.

A recent example of this loyalty came from former CSK star Ambati Rayudu. After MS Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 27 off just 12 balls against Punjab Kings in IPL 2025, Rayudu couldn’t hold back his praise. He spoke about Dhoni’s unmatched work ethic, calm presence, and strong intent, which continue to inspire players and fans alike. Rayudu highlighted how Dhoni always rises to the occasion and gives everything for the team, no matter the situation. Such moments remind us why Dhoni is not just a legendary player but also a symbol of commitment and leadership in the IPL.

Navjot Singh Sidhu Calls Ambati Rayudu Girgit

During the IPL 2025 match between Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings, the commentary box turned into a fun battlefield when Navjot Singh Sidhu and Ambati Rayudu got into a light-hearted war of words over MS Dhoni’s performance. It all started when Sidhu, while analysing the game, said that Dhoni is a legendary player with unmatched quality. But with the match slipping away, Sidhu added that Dhoni needed to hit big sixes from ball one, considering the asking rate. 

Just as Sidhu finished his point, Ambati Rayudu jumped in with a cheeky comment, “Paji, jaise girgit rang badalta hai, vaise aap team badalte ho”, indirectly hinting that Sidhu was switching sides too quickly — first praising Dhoni, then questioning him. Sidhu, never one to back down, laughed and replied, “Is sansar me girgit ki tarah koi hai to tum ho, kyunki tum har baat pe rang badalte ho”, pointing out how Rayudu too often changes his stance. The moment had everyone in splits. While the match was intense, this funny banter between two former cricketers brought a refreshing dose of entertainment for fans.

Ambati Rayudu Hails “Animated” MS Dhoni After Blistering Cameo vs Punjab Kings

Ambati Rayudu couldn’t hide his emotions while talking about MS Dhoni during the post-match analysis of CSK vs PBKS. Though Chennai ended up on the losing side once again, Rayudu was all heart while describing Dhoni’s brief but impactful innings. He said, “MS Dhoni looked animated even before he came out to bat. He was in the dressing room, doing his stretches, looking focused yet calm. It felt like he was preparing for battle”. Rayudu added, “When he walked out to bat, it was like he came with a sword in hand. There was intensity in his eyes and intent in every shot. The body language said it all as he wasn’t just here to play; he came to take the game deep, just like he always does”. Despite coming in at No. 5 with a steep chase on hand, Dhoni cracked 27 runs in just 12 balls, with 3 massive sixes and a four, striking at over 225. Rayudu highlighted that Dhoni’s presence alone lifts the atmosphere and inspires belief in fans and players alike. “Even at 43, he makes you feel like something magical can happen”, Rayudu said, summing up the Thala’s everlasting aura.

Fans Call Ambati Rayudu Biased for CSK

During the CSK matches, it is often seen that Ambati Rayudu wears his emotions on his sleeve — especially when it comes to his former team and captain MS Dhoni. Following Chennai Super Kings’ 18-run defeat to Punjab Kings in IPL 2025, Rayudu’s commentary has sparked controversy. Many fans took to social media, calling out what they described as “blatant bias” in favor of CSK. 

Rayudu, who was a key part of CSK’s golden era, was accused of crossing the line from passionate support to partiality, particularly during MS Dhoni’s explosive 27 off 12 balls. His emotional tone and visible excitement during Dhoni’s innings did not go unnoticed as memes and sarcastic remarks flooded the internet, suggesting that his commentary lacked neutrality.

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