Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL
MS Dhoni has talked about his batting position in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). For the last three IPL editions, Dhoni has been coming out to bat at lower order. In CSK’s IPL 2025 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, the veteran batted at number nine and scored an unbeaten 30 off just 16. CSK fell 50 runs short while chasing a huge score of 197 and registered a 50-run loss. Dhoni’s batting position grabbed a lot of eyeballs as formers of the sport opined that the CSK legend batting at number nine is futile for the team that has added five IPL trophies to their cabinet.
Prior to IPL 2025, Dhoni gave an interview to JioHotstar and described why he bats so low down the order. The legend also divulged the reason why he preferred Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja to bat above him in IPL 2024. "So, if you see, there was a problem in my knee, but it was more manageable than anything else last year. Also, there was a selection for the T20 World Cup. If you look at our team, who were the contenders? Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) was among the contenders, and Shivam Dube was among the contenders, so you obviously want to give them a chance. I don't want to get selected. I am not competing for that place," said the 43-year-old.
He also added, "And they were doing their job. It's not like a franchise is getting harmed if you are looking to promote players, you know. So, if everybody is doing the role and the responsibility, and it's taking some pressure off me, then why not."
CSK loses home game against RCB in IPL after 17 years
CSK recorded their first defeat against RCB at home Chepauk after 17 years. In Bengaluru’s valiant show, captain Rajat Patidar and Josh Hazlewood made vital contributions. Skipper Patidar scored a rapid half-century while Hazlewood picked up 3/21 figures in his four overs.
Chennai will look to bounce back in their next match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, scheduled to be played on March 30. Rajasthan have been winless after playing their initial two matches and Chennai’s endeavours will be to make RR continue their struggle in the tournament.
