In the early season of the IPL, MS Dhoni had a dominating presence. Back then, whenever he came out to bat, fans early awaited the fall of wickets. However, the situations have changed slightly this time. In the IPL 2025 match on March 30, Chennai Super Kings faced Rajasthan Royals, where CSK suffered a 6-run defeat. Ms Dhoni came to bat at number 7 and scored 16 runs off 11 balls, including one six and one four, with a strike rate of 145.45. His batting performance in this match has raised some questions.
Batting lower down the, Dhoni couldn’t provide much benefit to CSK, Earlier, on march 28, 2025 CSK faced a defeat on their home ground. In that match, MS Dhoni scored 30 runs off 16 balls, including three fours and two sixes, with a strike rate of 187.50. However, CSK suffered a 50- runs loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
There was a time when Dhoni used to be the captain of Chennai Super Kings and emerged as a legendary player. He had the freedom to bat at any position as per the team’s needs. However, in IPL 2025 CSK faced a humiliating defeat against Rajasthan Royals. Regarding this, Chennai Super Kings coach, Stephen Fleming says on social media that Dhoni ‘s knees are no longer supporting him and it is difficult for him to bat continuously for 10 overs. That is why he does not come to bat higher in the order.
Basically what Stephen Fleming means:
MSD is CSK.
If we want to keep our jobs and get paid, he gets to make the call.
Does not matter if we win or lose.
The rest of you can go to hell!
What he said: pic.twitter.com/vTE2D582tP
— Gautam Govitrikar DMD (@Gautaamm) March 31, 2025
Stephen Fleming further says that MS Dhoni himself decides his batting position. His body and knees are not as fit as they used to be. Although he is moving well, he is facing some difficulties. He is not fit enough to bat for a full 10 overs, which is why he assesses the situation and determines what he can do for the team.
Against Rajasthan, he came to bat higher up the order when the opportunity arose but he also ensures that other batters get their chances. As I mentioned last year, Dhoni is a very important player. He is a leader and his role as a wicketkeeper is also crucial.
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