Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming has explained that MS Dhoni’s batting position depends on timing, as the veteran wicketkeeper is not as fit as he once was. Dhoni has been batting lower down the order, and in the recent loss to RCB at home, he came in at No.9. This decision has drawn a lot of criticism from fans and experts.
In the match against Rajasthan Royals, MS Dhoni came in to bat at No. 7 and scored 16 runs off 11 balls before getting out in the final over. CSK lost the game by 6 runs. After the match, CSK coach Stephen Fleming spoke about Dhoni’s fitness. He admitted that Dhoni’s knees are not the same as before, and he cannot bat for long periods. Fleming added that the 43-year-old assesses what he can contribute to the team towards the end of the innings.
Fleming on Dhoni: Balancing Leadership, Fitness, and Impact for CSK
Fleming said that Dhoni always supports others to make the most of their chances when they come, and he is managing that role well.
“Yeah, it’s a time thing,” Fleming said. “MS 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.”
Even though Dhoni might not get to bat much, Fleming believes the 43-year-old is still extremely important for CSK because of his leadership and wicket-keeping skills.
“I said it last year [as well], he’s too valuable to us – leadership and wicket-keeping – to throw him in nine, ten overs. He has actually never done that. So, look, from around 13-14 overs, he’s looking to go depending on who’s in,” said Fleming.
Dhoni will next play for CSK in their home match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, April 5.
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