former indian batsman S Badrinath has raised a serious question for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Is it about the former Indian captain? ms dhoni Will either continue as an impact player or make a comeback as a full-time player after his disappointing performances in the last two IPL seasons.
During this period, he has mostly come to bat at number 7 or 8. There is no doubt that Dhoni’s advancing age is a major concern for the Chennai-based franchise. The 44-year-old cricketer has often been seen struggling with fitness, sometimes limping on the field and suffering from cramps during matches. Last season, Dhoni averaged around 25 in 14 matches with an average strike rate of 135.7.
Badrinath said that Dhoni often comes to bat in the 18th or 19th over.
Speaking further, the former Indian cricketer said that it can be exciting to see Dhoni coming in and hitting big sixes during the final overs, but from a cricketing perspective an important question remains: does he still have the ability to play every match? Or should he be used as an impact player? He said it is worth considering for CSK, especially since they have multiple batting and wicketkeeping options.
Badrinath questions MS Dhoni’s influence on CSK leadership
Badrinath also questioned Dhoni’s on-field role and asked whether he would actively guide the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. He wondered whether Dhoni, known to be a man of few words, would give inputs or Ruturaj would actively seek his advice.
He further said that the players like sanju samsonJoe, who is a senior professional and has captained RR, also makes a strong presence on the field. Considering last season’s performance, Badrinath suggested that it is fair to question Dhoni’s current value.
However, he concluded that if Dhoni has made himself available for CSK, he should be a part of the playing eleven. Dhoni’s poor form with the bat in the IPL 2025 season coincides with CSK’s worst campaign so far, as they finished bottom of the table with only four wins from 14 matches.
“It may be exciting to see MS Dhoni come out to bat in the 18th or 19th over and hit sixes. But from a cricketing point of view, does he still have the ability to play every match? Or should he play as an impact player? This is something to consider for CSK as they have a lot of batsmen and wicketkeepers. Also, as important as his presence in the field may be, will MS Dhoni give his inputs to Ruturaj Gaikwad? Will he Kind of character? Or Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ask and be open to Dhoni’s suggestions.”
Dhoni is a person of few words. Also, let us not forget that Sanju Samson is a senior professional and has captained RR. So his presence will also be there. Especially looking at last season, it is worth considering whether MS Dhoni still has much value. But once Dhoni has made his availability clear for CSK, I think he should be on the field.”
Balaji urges CSK to include MS Dhoni in the opening matches
former indian fast bowler L Balaji stated that ms dhoni Must participate in at least seven matches for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the upcoming IPL season. Balaji advised the franchise to play Dhoni in around 10 to 11 matches at the beginning of the tournament, which according to him will help. Ruturaj GaikwadThe leadership team handles pressure more effectively, with Dhoni acting as a guiding force behind the scenes.
“MS Dhoni’s presence on the field for the full 20 overs is extremely important. His ability to take strategic decisions on the spot is invaluable. While the coach can assist in deciding the batting order from the outside, important decisions in the game such as bowling changes and field placements require an experienced mind on the field. That is why he should not be used just as an impact player. At least for the first seven matches, Dhoni will be on the field to support and guide Ruturaj Gaikwad. It should happen,” Balaji said.
He further said that with many young players in the team, Dhoni’s presence will provide a sense of peace and confidence to the team. “Having Dhoni around will give Gaikwad comfort. His decision-making ability will be more assured if MS is on the field during the early stages of the tournament,” he said.
After Chennai Super Kings After failing to qualify for the playoffs last season, expectations are high from the ‘Yellow Army’ this year. There have been notable changes to the team, including the departure of Ravindra Jadeja and inclusion of sanju samsonWhich can reshape the team dynamics.
Also like the form of key players Shivam Dubey Will play an important role in determining the team’s performance this season. CSK will start their campaign against Rajasthan Royals In Guwahati on 30 March.
Also read: ‘I like young MS Dhoni more than mature MS Dhoni’: Sourav Ganguly gave a big statement
