The ongoing Delhi Premier League 2025 has not only provided a stage for emerging cricketers but also sparked some interesting conversations around India's biggest stars.
Recently, one of the players was asked a hypothetical question that pitted three modern legends: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, against pacer Jasprit Bumrah in a last-over battle.
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The answer offered by a Delhi youngster highlighted just how enduring Dhoni's reputation as India's ultimate finisher remains.
Vaibhav Kandpal picks Dhoni over Kohli and Rohit in Bumrah scenario
North Delhi Strikers captain Vaibhav Kandpal was asked who he would back to score 18 runs in the final over against Bumrah. Without hesitation, the 25-year-old chose Dhoni, saying India hasn't produced another finisher of his caliber.
"I will choose MS because I do not think there has come a finisher like him in India. 18 runs is something very easy for him," Kandpal told Cricket Kesari.
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The youngster added that Dhoni's ability to dominate even world-class bowlers set him apart: "MS sir is such that, be it any bowler, no matter how big a bowler, they would always fall short in front of him. He has always proven himself and has won games single-handedly, so I will choose Dhoni."
Kandpal has scored 223 runs from eight innings in the DPL so far but his comments drew more attention than his stats as they once again underlined Dhoni's aura.
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The Chennai Super Kings star - who has led the franchise to five IPL titles, continues to be admired for his calmness and match-winning ability in high-pressure situations. Even at 44, Dhoni's fitness and competitive edge are being applauded.
Recently, his former teammate Ravichandran Ashwin lauded his commitment to still competing in the IPL. While speculation lingers about his future beyond 2025, Dhoni's reputation as the man for crunch moments clearly lives on among India's next generation.