Kartik Sharma’s match-winning fifty and Dhoni-like gun celebration stole the show in CSK’s dominant win over MI in IPL 2026.
Kartik Sharma emerged as the star performer for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their dominant eight-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026. The young batter played a composed unbeaten knock of 54 off 40 balls, guiding CSK in a tricky chase of 160.
Chennai were under slight pressure at 46/2 after early setbacks, but Kartik stitched a crucial partnership with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who remained unbeaten on 67 off 48 balls. The duo ensured a comfortable finish as CSK chased down the target with 29 balls to spare.
With this innings, Kartik also etched his name in the record books, becoming the second-youngest CSK batter to score an IPL fifty, only behind Ayush Mhatre.
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Dhoni’s Iconic Celebration Recreated by Kartik Sharma
While his batting made a strong impact, it was Kartik Sharma’s celebration that stole the spotlight. The youngster recreated the iconic gun-point gesture, instantly reminding fans of MS Dhoni’s famous celebration from 2005.
Back then, Dhoni had produced a historic unbeaten 183 against Sri Lanka in Jaipur, where he celebrated his century with the same gesture, a moment that remains iconic in cricket history.
Kartik’s version of the celebration quickly went viral, sparking nostalgia among fans and drawing comparisons with the former India captain.
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Kartik Sharma Explains Celebration
After the match, Kartik Sharma clarified that the celebration was not meant as a tribute to Dhoni but was something he had planned in advance for a special milestone.
“I had planned beforehand that if I scored runs today, I would celebrate like that,” he said.
Reflecting further on his memorable innings, he added, “Yes sir, it was my first innings and my first IPL fifty.”
Despite his clarification, the resemblance to Dhoni’s iconic moment remained striking, making it one of the most talked-about highlights of the MI vs CSK clash, as CSK still hands in the playoff race. Meanwhile, MI will have to get a near perfect score from their remaining games to make it to the Top 4.
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