Why MS Dhoni Isn’t Batting up the Order in IPL 2025
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed that MS Dhoni’s knee issues prevent him from batting extended periods in IPL 2025. At 43, he manages his workload, stepping in based on match situations while prioritizing leadership and wicketkeeping. CSK won their opener but suffered defeats against RCB and RR. They now prepare to face Delhi Capitals.
Coming to the ongoing IPL 2025 season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has addressed concerns over MS Dhoni’s batting position. The 43-year-old former Indian captain has been coming in lower down the order, featuring at No. 8 in CSK’s opening match against Mumbai Indians and at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bangalore. In the recent match against Rajasthan Royals, he batted at No. 7 but couldn’t prevent a six-run loss for his team.
Fleming explained that Dhoni’s reduced batting role is due to physical constraints, particularly his knees, which limit his ability to play long innings. The coach emphasized that while Dhoni remains a crucial asset to the team with his leadership and wicketkeeping skills, he can no longer sustain batting for 10 overs at full intensity. Instead, he assesses each match situation and decides when to step in. He said:
Yeah, it’s a time thing. MS Dhoni judges it. His body is, his knees aren’t what they used to be. And he’s moving okay, but there’s still an attrition aspect to it. He can’t bat 10 overs running full stick. So he will gauge on the day what he can give us. If the game’s in the balance like today, he will go a little bit earlier, and he backs other players when other opportunities are up. So he’s balancing that.
Moreover, MS Dhoni’s fans have been vocal about their desire to see him bat higher up the order, and the former CSK captain might be considering a change in his approach. In IPL 2025, despite a promising start with a victory over Mumbai Indians, CSK has struggled with back-to-back defeats against RCB and Rajasthan Royals.
With Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the side, the team will be eager to bounce back when they take on Delhi Capitals in match number 17 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. A strong performance in this crucial fixture could help CSK regain momentum and get their campaign back on track.
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