The batting stance of the legendary MS Dhoni during the current Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season has generated a lot of discussion. The wicketkeeper-batter for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been batting at a lower position. Head coach Stephen Fleming answered this query during CSK’s six-run defeat to the Rajasthan Royals (RR), ending any conjecture over Dhoni’s starting position.
Dhoni has made brief appearances while batting at positions ranging from No. 7 to No. 9 in the current season. Many have questioned why CSK didn’t put him in sooner since he is still hitting the ball brilliantly. In an attempt to witness their hero in action, fans have even begun to shout for CSK to get wickets so that Dhoni can bat.
Fleming clarified after the RR game, nevertheless, that MS Dhoni’s batting position was a result of physical limitations.
According to the coach, Dhoni’s body has changed, particularly his knees. The 43-year-old batsman-wicketkeeper is taking great care of his health and cannot afford to run for extended periods of time at maximum effort.
Yes, it’s a matter of time. MS evaluates it. His knees aren’t as strong as they once were. Even if he’s making good progress, attrition is still a factor. He is unable to bat full-stick for ten overs. He will therefore determine what he can provide us on that day. He will go a little earlier if the game is close, like it is today, and he supports other players when other chances arise. “So he’s balancing that,” Fleming stated during the press conference held after the game.
The former captain of New Zealand underlined that it would be impossible to move Dhoni up the order needlessly because of how important his leadership and wicketkeeping are to CSK.
“He is too valuable to us in terms of leadership and wicketkeeping to be used for nine or ten overs, as I stated last year [as well].” That’s something he’s never done. “Look, depending on who’s in, he’s looking to go from about 13-14 overs,” he continued.
CSK yet to win a game in IPL 2025 season
Meanwhile, the five-time champions are currently in a tricky situation, having lost two out of their three games. Currently positioned seventh in the points table, the Chennai-based franchise needs to find a way to get back to winning ways.
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