Can Dhoni Still Make a Difference in CSK's Setup?

New Delhi, May 8 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar praised MS Dhoni for his calm demeanor during Chennai Super Kings' thrilling two-wicket win against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Bangar emphasized Dhoni's integral role as a pivotal finisher, pointing out that the seasoned wicketkeeper-batter remains a crucial player in tight contests, making it hard to discount him, particularly considering his recent impactful showings.

When Kolkata Knight Riders set a target of 179/6 after choosing to bat first, CSK's Dewald Brevis, in just his fifth match for the franchise, stole the spotlight with a blistering 52 off 25 balls. Shivam Dube and Dhoni orchestrated a final flourish, running aggressively between the wickets and striking vital boundaries.

With Chennai needing 18 runs from 12 balls, they started the over strongly, but KKR struck back, dismissing Dube (45 off 40) and Noor Ahmad swiftly, leaving CSK with eight runs to chase in the final over with only two wickets remaining. The crowd was treated to a classic Dhoni moment as he hit a six on the first ball of the last over, clinching the victory for CSK.

“He executed his plan well and was well supported by Shivam Dube from the other end. With limited batting resources remaining after Dube and Dhoni, they had to proceed with caution. Dube took the risks while MS smartly rotated the strike, waiting for the bowlers to slip up. This has been his strategy, and he has adhered to it despite the challenges he's faced this season. CSK relied on him once more—similar to that win against LSG. You simply cannot rule him out. In two of CSK's last three victories, he has been pivotal in those nail-biting finishes,” Bangar remarked on JioHotstar.

Post-match, when asked about his future in the IPL, Dhoni stated that he has not yet made a decision regarding his retirement and will assess his future later.

"The love and support I've received throughout my career is overwhelming. I'm 43 and have played for a long time. Fans are uncertain about when my last year will be; the reality is I only play for two months a year. Once this IPL concludes, I’ll need to evaluate if my body can handle the pressures of the game for the next 6-8 months. As of now, there’s nothing to decide, but the affection I receive everywhere is truly wonderful," Dhoni said after the close win over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.

In pursuit of 180 runs, CSK debutant Urvil Patel provided a blazing start, scoring 31 off just 11 balls. Patel joined the squad as an injury replacement for Vansh Bedi, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the tournament due to a ligament injury in his left ankle.

Last week, another young debutant for CSK, Ayush Mhatre, made a remarkable contribution with 94 off 48 balls, making him the third player in IPL history to score a fifty at the age of 17 years and 292 days. Notably, Mhatre also joined the squad as an injury substitute for skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Commending CSK's ability to discover young talent, Bangar stated, "Very impressive—it clearly demonstrates that Urvil Patel possesses a solid temperament. To step in and make an immediate impact is an extraordinary skill. And since he keeps wickets, one wonders if MS sees potential in him to become CSK’s long-term wicketkeeper and a reliable batsman in crucial positions."

"This is a significant advantage for CSK. Urvil Patel was signed late in the season, and after giving Rasheed a decent run, they provided Urvil with a chance—and he made an immediate impression. It reminded me of the kind of debut Ayush Mhatre had with them," he added.