Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach Stephen Fleming has shed light on MS Dhoni's batting position in the ongoing IPL 2025 season, attributing the former captain's lower-order positioning to his ongoing knee issues. Fleming emphasized that Dhoni, despite his fiery cameo against Royal Challengers Bangalore, is unlikely to bat higher up in the order due to the limitations of his knee injury, which he underwent surgery for in 2023.
In the recent match at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Dhoni, who entered the game at No. 9 with Chennai's chase looking unlikely, managed to play a thrilling knock of 30* off just 16 balls. While his explosive performance sparked excitement in the packed Chepauk crowd, the team ultimately succumbed to a comfortable victory by RCB. Despite this, Dhoni's batting position raised questions among fans and pundits alike.
FLEMING ADDRESSES THE GROWING CONCERNS
During a press briefing after CSK’s second consecutive loss in IPL 2025, Fleming addressed the growing concerns about Dhoni’s role in the team. He explained that the 43-year-old's knee injury severely affects his ability to bat for extended periods. “MS judges it based on the situation,” Fleming said. “His knees aren’t what they used to be. He’s moving well, but there’s still an attrition aspect to it. He can’t bat 10 overs at full tilt. He gauges on the day what he can offer and steps in when the situation calls for it.”
A TACTICAL DECISION: DHONI'S BATTING POSITION BASED ON MATCH DYNAMICS
Fleming clarified that Dhoni's entry in the batting order depends heavily on the match situation, alongside his fitness levels. “If the game is in the balance, like today, he will come in earlier. He backs other players when the opportunity arises for them to take charge. He’s always balancing that,” said the CSK coach.
This explanation was crucial in dispelling the notion that Dhoni's role was diminishing. Fleming confirmed that despite the limitations imposed by his knee injury, Dhoni remains a highly valuable asset for the team. "He's too important to us in leadership and wicket-keeping. We don’t want to send him in during the first 9-10 overs," he added. "MS has never done that. He usually steps in from around the 13th or 14th over, depending on who's at the crease."
DHONI'S BATTING IN RECENT MATCHES
In the following game against Rajasthan Royals, Dhoni came in at No. 7, facing a tall task with CSK needing 54 runs from just 25 balls. Despite his best efforts, including hitting a boundary and a six in the penultimate over, Dhoni's contribution was not enough to lead CSK to victory. In the final over, the equation was reduced to 20 runs, but Dhoni fell to Sandeep Sharma as CSK lost by a narrow margin of six runs. Rajasthan Royals played against Chennai Super Kings in this thrilling contest.
CONCLUSION: DHONI STILL A KEY PLAYER FOR CSK
While questions about Dhoni’s physical limitations continue to surface, Stephen Fleming's comments have reassured fans that the former captain remains a crucial part of the Chennai Super Kings' strategy. His role, while carefully managed, continues to be one of immense value for both leadership and his wicket-keeping duties. Despite the setbacks, Dhoni's experience and ability to deliver in pressure situations ensure that he is far from being a burden to his team.
