WhCSK answers the question of Dhoni’s batting position

 

MS Dhoni's batting position in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has sparked debate among cricket fans and non-fans alike over the past two IPL seasons. Despite his reputation as a master finisher, Dhoni has often batted lower down the order, arriving at the crease with limited overs remaining. 

CSK Head Coach Stephen Fleming has now shed light on the strategy, revealing that Dhoni is unlikely to bat if there are more than six to seven overs left, especially if the match situation doesn't necessitate his involvement.

 

Managing Fitness and Game Time

 

Dhoni’s batting position came under the spotlight once again during CSK’s six-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. Walking in with 54 runs needed off 25 balls, he fought hard but was unable to take his team over the line. Addressing the post-match concerns, Fleming cited Dhoni’s physical condition, particularly his knee, as the main factor in this approach.

“It’s a time thing. MS makes the call,” Fleming said. “His body, his knees are not as good as they used to be. He is still moving all right, but there’s an attribution factor to it. He can not bat 10 overs running flat out. So, he weighs up what he can do on the way. If the game is in the balance, he may come in sooner. Otherwise, he trusts the other players to take the responsibility.”

 

Influence in Decisive Chases

 

CSK’s recent record highlights his deliberate choice. Dhoni has not been called upon in successful chases since the 2023 season, facing only nine balls for three runs in such a situation. Yet, when CSK has been struggling during chases, Dhoni has come to the rescue, playing six games and making 166 runs off 84 balls, demonstrating his pressure performance. 

This tactic, potent in the CSK's clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, saw skipper Dhoni being batted at No. 9, while R Ashwin came before him. This could imply that the management is mindful of balancing Dhoni's workload, although they have assured that he is fit this season.

 

MS Dhoni’s Own Take on His Role

 

Appearing on a Star Sports programme, Dhoni himself admitted the crucial role of wicketkeeping in his overall value to the team. “If I am not wicketkeeping, I think I am useless on the field because that’s where I read the game in the best possible manner. It’s a challenge, and that’s what makes it interesting.” The past couple of years, I don’t know if it is two or five years, my franchise has been like, ‘You play till you want to play.’

 

CSK’s Calculated Approach

 

Fleming reiterated that CSK prioritises Dhoni’s leadership and wicketkeeping over extended batting stints. “I said it last year as well, he is too valuable to us in terms of leadership and wicketkeeping to be sent in for nine or ten overs. He has actually never done that. From around the 13th or 14th over onwards, he looks to go, depending on who is already in,” he explained.

With the gradual progression of IPL 2025, Dhoni's role keeps changing as CSK is very careful about his workload. His value to CSK doesn't fade for a moment; the long innings remain a thing of bygone ages. Instead, he remains invaluable to the team due to his game sense, finishing skills, and captaincy, which ensure that he brings maximum contribution.