14 April 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): The ongoing IPL 2025 season has seen the introduction of a robotic dog, and it has caught the attention of players, experts and fans. The robot dog can walk, run, jump and also stand on its hind legs. The robot dog also has a camera mounted on it, and can film players. The robot dog was once again the centre of attention during LSG vs CSK in Lucknow on Monday, as the cameras shifted to MS Dhoni.
On meeting the IPL robot dog, the CSK skipper had a hilarious response, as he simply picked it up and laid it down on the ground, making it unable to move. The hilarious gesture showed that even if Dhoni is way past 40 now, he is still innocent like a child.
The camera quality used in the device planted on the robot dog is similar to ones found in an action camera, like GoPro. The IPL robot dog also filed net sessions, and followed the likes of Hardik Pandya and Danny Morrison.
It also looks like the robot dog could be used to film behind-the-scenes moments, and give fans a more unique and personal experience. Also due to its low position, the camera can spot moments which a standard camera operator can’t.
Dhoni’s jovial mood didn’t just end there, as he also pulled a prank on Rishabh Pant during the toss. When the pair met in the centre stage, along with Murali Karthik, Dhoni shoulder pushed his close friend, who was left smiling. Then in response, Pant hugged him with a beaming smile on his face.
Dhoni took over CSK’s captaincy again in their previous fixture vs KKR, due to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury. The opener has been ruled out for the entire season. But Dhoni didn’t have the best start as KKR thrashed CSK. Meanwhile, LSG have been in good form and have bagged four wins and a defeat in the ongoing season. Pant has been bad batting form, but his captaincy skills has been working for LSG.
Summary: MS Dhoni’s playful antics with the IPL robot dog and Rishabh Pant during LSG vs CSK proved he’s still a kid at heart, adding light moments to a high-stakes season.