MS Dhoni IPL Batting:
The five-time champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have kicked off the IPL 2024 season in style. Playing under the new captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, while Mahendra Singh Dhoni continues to dazzle as the wicketkeeper-batsman.
CSK has emerged victorious in their opening matches. However, a curious question arises: Why hasn't Dhoni come up to bat yet? Even as Chennai faced crucial wickets falling, with four in the first match and six in the second.
A Special Strategy for Dhoni
Indeed, the team management and coach Stephen Fleming have crafted a unique plan for Dhoni. They aim to deploy him in the 8th position to ensure a spectacular match finish.
Enter the 'Impact Player' rule, which has been obstructing Dhoni's batting opportunities. This revelation comes directly from the batting coach of the Chennai team, Michael Hussey.
Coach's Agreement on Dhoni's Batting Order
Hussey shared in a press conference, 'Only after discussing with head coach Stephen Fleming did we decide to place Dhoni lower down the order. Due to the 'Impact Player' rule, each team plays an extra batsman and bowler, hence deepening the batting lineup, which is why we positioned Dhoni at number 8. He's currently in fine form during the nets.'
Keep Up the Attacking Game
He also mentioned, 'Given the depth in our batting order, players are given full liberty to play an attacking game. It's been made abundantly clear: even a hint of confusion in the top order must be confronted with an aggressive stance. If players get out while doing so, they have our full support, but the attacking gameplay must continue. Fleming's directive is clear – play fast, and keep playing that way.'
