MUMBAI: Turns out the biggest impact player of IPL 2025 isn’t even an “impact player”, it’s Dhoni. A new report titled The IPL Pulse by 23 Watts Insights Studio has bowled over cricket buffs with fan-fuelled findings from over 5,000 respondents across 10 cities. From emerging icons to unexpected frontrunners, the survey captures the shifting allegiances, breakout stars, and strategic evolution of this year’s league proving once again that in India, cricket isn’t just watched, it’s felt.

At 42, MS Dhoni may not be scoring big with the bat, but his grip on the nation’s heart remains unshaken. A whopping 73 per cent fans say he shouldn’t retire just yet, with 35.13 per cent calling him the “soul of CSK” and 37.77 per cent admitting he’s not in peak form, but still brings immense value. Only 27 per cent feel it’s time for Thala to trade the gloves for the dugout.

While legends still shine, Gen Z has crowned its new prince. Rajasthan Royals’ teen dynamo Vaibhav Suryavanshi has emerged as the most impressive debutant with 31.4 per cent votes. Following close are Mumbai Indians’ Ashwani Kumar (21 per cent) and South African import Ryan Rickelton (15.8 per cent), whose flair with the bat has turned heads across formats.

When it comes to bowling nightmares, Jasprit Bumrah (32.4 per cent) reigns supreme, followed by CSK’s crafty spinner Noor Ahmad (28.4 per cent). Fans, though, are clearly on the pace bandwagon 65.3 per cent believe fast bowlers are tougher to face than spinners this season.

It’s the year of the underdog. According to the report, 65 per cent of fans are hoping for a first-time IPL winner. Royal Challengers Bangalore leads the fairytale charge with 44 per cent of the vote, ahead of Delhi Capitals (12 per cent), Punjab Kings (7 per cent) and Lucknow Super Giants (2 per cent). Mumbai Indians (13 per cent) and CSK (12 per cent) remain in the hunt, but fan hopes seem to favour fresh silverware.

Love it or overhype it, the “Impact Player” rule has divided the pitch but not the people. An overwhelming 78 per cent agree it’s added a strategic edge to the game, while 20 per cent say it’s tough on true-blue all-rounders.

Key takeaways from The IPL Pulse:

. Thala for life: Only 1 in 4 fans want Dhoni to retire.

. Debut delight: Suryavanshi and Kumar lead the rookie chart.

.  Bowling heat: Bumrah is still the batter’s worst nightmare.

.  Dark horse energy: RCB tops wishlist for a new IPL champion.

.  Rule reimagined: “Impact player” earns mass approval.

With 55 matches down and plenty more fireworks to come, The IPL Pulse proves one thing beyond doubt, the love for cricket is as layered and unpredictable as the tournament itself. And in this game, it's not just the players making an impact, it's the fans who write the script.