IPL 2025: MS Dhoni Makes New MI Star Vignesh Puthur's Night with a Pat on the Back | Watch Video

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CSK vs MI: In the high-intensity clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium, all eyes were on cricketing greats like MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah.

Yet, amid the familiar faces of IPL royalty, a new name quietly made a lasting impression -- Vignesh Puthur. The young left-arm wrist-spinner turned the game on its head with a spell that nearly derailed CSK's chase, earning praise from none other than MS Dhoni himself.

Chasing a target of 156, CSK seemed on course for a routine victory when Ruturaj Gaikwad blazed his way to a half-century. But the script took a sudden twist when Puthur was introduced into the attack. The 23-year-old immediately made an impact, removing Gaikwad and halting CSK's momentum.

He followed it up with the dismissals of Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda, swinging the match into MI's favour for a brief period. His variations, control, and fearless approach on the big stage stunned the CSK batting lineup.

Though CSK ultimately clinched the victory, Puthur's spell was one of the biggest talking points of the night. His remarkable performance didn't go unnoticed, especially by MS Dhoni, who sought him out after the match. In a heartwarming moment captured on camera, Dhoni not only praised Puthur's bowling but also inquired about his age, a subtle nod to the youngster's potential.

For a debutant playing under immense pressure, such recognition from a cricketing legend is priceless. Puthur's journey to the IPL has been anything but conventional. Originally a medium-pacer, he transitioned into a wrist-spinner under the mentorship of Kerala's Mohammed Sherif.

Despite not featuring in Kerala's senior domestic squad, his performances in the Kerala Cricket League and College Premier T20 League caught the attention of scouts, leading MI to secure him for ₹30 lakh at the IPL auction.

While the night ended in a CSK victory, Puthur walked away as a winner in his own right. The encouragement from Dhoni will undoubtedly serve as a confidence booster for the youngster as he embarks on what promises to be an exciting IPL career. Sometimes, it's not just the result but the recognition that makes a night truly unforgettable-and for Vignesh Puthur, this was one such moment.