“He Can Only Perform Well With a Specific Amount of Balls”: Dhoni’s Injury Prevents Him From Being Promoted in the Batting Order

One of the nicest things about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is without a doubt, MS Dhoni, who is batting like a dream. The supporters are going crazy as their former skipper keeps turning the clock back, and the defending champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are among the top four teams on the points total. In the current version, he has only batted for five innings but has amassed 87 runs. His incredible strike rate of 255.88, however, has been discussed. When there are only a few deliveries remaining in the innings, he often goes out to bat. But in that little amount of time, the plays are just amazing.

In the competition so far, Dhoni has hit seven boundaries and eight sixes. There is excitement to see him bat up in the order, play more deliveries, and pound some more huge sixes because he has been hitting the ball so cleanly. However, the former CSK captain is already suffering from a knee ailment and has often been noticed limping, so the CSK administration doesn’t want to jeopardize his fitness.

In Friday’s match against the Lucknow Super Giants, Dhoni struck for 28 runs off of only 9 balls, leading CSK to 176/6. The hosts prevailed by eight wickets, but his blitzkrieg was insufficient to allow the reigning champions to reach the finish line.

Speaking to the media after the game in Lucknow, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming said that Dhoni’s ability to use the willow for extended periods of time has been limited due to his recuperation from a knee injury, hence, he cannot be elevated in the batting order. According to Fleming, Dhoni is only “owing that space” for the few balls he has faced this IPL season.

Isn’t that inspirational? Even in practice this year, he has hit rather well. His tremendous level of competence throughout the preseason has left the club unsurprised by what he is accomplishing. There are only so many balls that he can work with properly since he has clearly had knee issues in previous years and is still healing from them, according to Fleming.

“I believe that’s appropriate, but I think everyone wants to see him for longer than we do. He is essential to the competition, and in that two- to three minute cameo, he owns that area.

“The rest of the batting group must put us in a situation where he can propel us to victory. Fleming said during the news conference after the game, “It’s nice to see him do it pretty much every time right now.

Fleming went on to say that Dhoni continues to be the team’s lifeblood and that they are “enjoying every minute” of his presence as the supporters show him their support and affection at all times.

Fleming said, “What an incredible atmosphere when he comes out and does play and entertain, it’s exhilarating.”

“We are really pleased with his accomplishments. We are amazed at how much affection he receives. Given his achievements in Indian cricket and with CSK, it comes as no surprise. He is essentially the lifeblood of our side, and we are really delighted to have him on board. We had a great time with it.

“We are aware that his career, both past and present, has benefited us. Our enjoyment of it is unwavering,” the head coach said.