A recent report of MS Dhoni’s leg injury explained his unorthodox batting position during CSK vs PBKS match.
MS Dhoni’s decision to bat at number nine in the recent IPL match against the Punjab Kings sparked confusion among fans and criticism from experts. While some questioned his form, the reason behind Dhoni’s delayed batting order is now revealed to be an injury.
According to a Times of India report, Dhoni is battling a muscle tear in his leg, hindering his ability to run extensively on the field. This explains his preference to bat lower in the order, minimising the need for running between the wickets.
Dhoni’s recent on-field decisions, like sending back teammate Daryl Mitchell for a potential double and getting run out himself, also raised eyebrows. However, a source close to the team suggested that this might be a consequence of his injury.
“We are virtually playing with our ‘B’ team. Those who are criticising Dhoni don’t know the sacrifice that he is making for this team,” the source was quoted as saying by TOI.
The report further revealed that Dhoni might have gotten some rest if backup wicketkeeper-batter Devon Conway had not been ruled out with an injury himself.
Despite doctors recommending rest, Dhoni’s limited options due to team injuries force him to play through the pain. He reportedly managed the situation by taking medication and minimised running while batting.
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Notably, this is not Dhoni’s first brush with injuries. Last year, he played a significant portion of IPL 2023 with a knee injury, eventually requiring surgery after the season.
Chennai Super Kings have been plagued by injuries this season. Key players like Devon Conway, Matheesha Pathirana, and Deepak Chahar are already out or unlikely to return due to various injuries. Nevertheless, the team sits in a strong third position on the IPL points table and would like to book their seventh win as they take on the Gujarat Titans on May 10th.
Last Updated on May 7, 2024