MS Dhoni, the enduring finisher of Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK), has at all times been synonymous with thrilling match-winning performances. Nevertheless, IPL 2025 has seen a shocking shift in his batting place, leaving followers and pundits questioning the rationale behind this choice. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has now make clear the matter, providing insights into the strategic and bodily concerns influencing Dhoni’s position within the workforce.
Stephen Fleming opens up on managing a legend’s health
At 43 years of age, Dhoni stays a pivotal determine for CSK, each as a information and wicketkeeper. Nevertheless, age and bodily limitations have begun to form his contributions on the sphere. Fleming revealed that Dhoni’s decrease batting order is basically on account of his knee situation, which has been a priority since his surgical procedure in 2023.
“Yeah, it’s a time factor,” Fleming instructed reporters. “MS judges it. His physique is, his knees aren’t what they was once and he’s shifting okay however there’s nonetheless an attrition side to it, He can’t bat ten overs operating full stick. So he gauges on the day what he may give us,” Fleming defined within the post-match press convention. This pragmatic strategy ensures that Dhoni can deal with brief bursts of impactful batting somewhat than extended innings that would pressure him bodily.
Why MS Dhoni is getting into the sphere late?
Dhoni’s batting place has fluctuated between No. 7 and No. 9 this season, relying on match conditions. In opposition to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he got here in at No. 9 and performed a quick-fire 30* off 16 balls regardless of CSK’s heavy defeat. Equally, he batted at No. 7 towards Rajasthan Royals, scoring 16 off 11 balls in an in depth six-run loss.
Fleming emphasised that Dhoni’s entry level is set by the steadiness of the sport and his capacity to ship underneath strain. “If the sport’s within the steadiness, he’ll go a bit of bit earlier, He backs different gamers when different alternatives are up,” Fleming added. This calculated technique permits Dhoni to preserve power whereas nonetheless contributing throughout vital moments.
Dhoni’s worth past runs
Whereas followers might miss seeing Dhoni dominate with the bat for prolonged durations, Fleming underscored his irreplaceable worth as a frontrunner and wicketkeeper. “He’s too priceless to us – management and wicket-keeping – to throw him in at nine-ten overs,” Fleming said. Dhoni’s sharp decision-making behind the stumps and lightning-fast stumpings stay integral to CSK’s success.
Furthermore, his management continues to encourage confidence amongst teammates, whilst he takes a backseat in batting duties. His capacity to information youthful gamers and handle high-pressure conditions provides immeasurable depth to CSK’s line-up.
Additionally READ: IPL 2025: Stephen Fleming reveals why CSK misplaced to RR in Guwahati
Dhoni faces criticism from specialists
Regardless of Fleming’s explanations, some former cricketers have voiced their issues about Dhoni batting decrease down the order. Specialists like Virender Sehwag and Manoj Tiwary argue that with Dhoni nonetheless hanging at over 190 this season, he ought to be promoted increased up for longer innings. Equally, Aakash Chopra questioned CSK’s choice to ship Ravichandran Ashwin forward of Dhoni throughout their match towards RCB.
Whereas these criticisms spotlight Dhoni’s enduring batting prowess, in addition they overlook the broader workforce dynamics and bodily limitations that affect such choices. CSK have had a blended begin to IPL 2025, with two losses of their first three video games. As they put together to face Delhi Capitals subsequent Saturday.
