IPL 2025: Fleming Justifies Dhoni's Batting Position Changes
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Synopsis
Chennai Super Kings' coach Stephen Fleming has defended his decision regarding MS Dhoni's batting order in IPL 2025, emphasizing that fans should not expect the veteran cricketer to bat early in the innings due to fitness concerns.
Key Takeaways
- MS Dhoni's batting position has been shifted due to fitness issues.
- Stephen Fleming supports the decision for tactical reasons.
- CSK struggles with consecutive losses in IPL 2025.
- Dhoni's experience remains crucial for CSK.
- Upcoming match against Delhi Capitals on April 5.
Guwahati, March 31 (NationPress) Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming has clarified MS Dhoni's batting positions, indicating that fans should not anticipate the former captain to step onto the field around the 9th or 10th over during the current IPL 2025 season, following their narrow six-run defeat against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.
Batting at No. 7, Dhoni managed to score only 16 runs off 11 balls while pursuing a target of 183 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, marking CSK's second consecutive defeat of the season.
In their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Dhoni entered the game batting at No. 9 after Ravichandran Ashwin, despite CSK being in a precarious situation at 80/6 after 13 overs. Although the circumstances were challenging for Dhoni to create a comeback, he delivered a quick 16-ball 30 not out, featuring three fours and two sixes. Nonetheless, the decision to bat Dhoni late in the innings was met with criticism from former players, commentators, and fans.
In defense of his batting order decision, Fleming stated that the 43-year-old veteran's body has changed, particularly his knees, following a left knee surgery after IPL 2023.
"Yes, it's a matter of timing. His body... his knees aren't what they used to be, and while he is moving reasonably well, there is still an aspect of wear and tear. He can't play 10 overs at full intensity. So, he will assess on the day what he can contribute. If the match is close, like today, he'll come in a bit earlier, and he trusts other players when opportunities arise. It's all about balance," Fleming remarked in the post-match press conference.
Elaborating on Dhoni's significance to the team, Fleming remarked, "I mentioned this last year; he is too essential to our team, in terms of leadership and wicket-keeping, to send him in during the ninth or tenth overs. He has never actually done that. So, from around 13-14 overs, he will be looking to come in, depending on who is batting at the time."
Currently, CSK sits in seventh place on the points table with two points from three matches. The Chennai-based team is set to face Delhi Capitals at MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 5.
