I don’t think CSK is relying on MS Dhoni’s batting contributions: Sanjay Manjrekar

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are not reliant on MS Dhoni‘s batting contributions, according to former Indian cricket player and current analyst Sanjay Manjrekar. After CSK’s 50-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2025 Indian Premier League, Manjrekar talked candidly about how the franchise seemed to have valued Dhoni’s leadership qualities, wicketkeeping skills, and brand more than his batting prowess.

On March 28, when CSK was chasing 197 against RCB, they sent Dhoni at number nine, which drew harsh criticism. The five-time champions decided to deploy R Ashwin in place of their former captain for the 13th over, as the scorecard showed 80 for 6 and the needed run rate was rising. The chase was all but impossible to reach by the time Dhoni reached the crease, and Ashwin’s 8-ball 11 did little to steady the innings.

In the last over, MS Dhoni hit two sixes and a boundary to smash 30 runs off 16 balls despite coming in so late.

Following the game, a lot of supporters and analysts wondered why he didn’t move up the order. As he examined CSK, Manjrekar said that the squad is not dependent on Dhoni’s ability to score runs, but rather is based around other hitters.

This season, I’m sticking to my position that Dhoni’s inclusion in the squad serves more as a publicity stunt than as a player. That is the choice CSK has made because he attracts large crowds and has a sizable fan base. Even if Dhoni decides to bat at number eight, he will still score some runs. He can do it even at No. 9, 10, or 11. I do not believe that CSK is depending on Dhoni’s batting performances, though; they are counting on the other players to perform. But he still keeps excellent wickets, he noted on JioStar.

His effectiveness behind the stumps and crisp stumpings demonstrate the veteran’s glove work at its peak. Shivam Dube and other younger players appear to be the focal points of CSK’s squad structure. Dhoni’s batting position will continue to be a topic of discussion, but as long as he keeps making other contributions, the team is unlikely to question his spot in the squad.