Monday : May 5, 2025
12 : 27 : 47 AM
Breaking News

Donald Trump gives a two-word answer on upholding the US Constitution

Even if MS Dhoni had batted before Ashwin, RCB would have defeated CSK 999 times out of 1000. But why is he at No. 9?

top-news


The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have always been known for their strategic brilliance, but one decision in the IPL 2024 season has left fans and experts baffled—**why is MS Dhoni, one of the greatest finishers in cricket history, batting at No.9?**  

After CSK's recent loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a debate erupted: *"RCB would have beaten CSK 999 times out of 1000, even if Dhoni batted ahead of Ravichandran Ashwin. So why is he coming in so late?"*  

Let’s break down the possible reasons behind this controversial move.  

---

1. Dhoni’s Role in the Current CSK Setup**  
Age & Physical Limitations**  
- At **42**, Dhoni is no longer the explosive finisher he once was.  
- His fitness and running between wickets have visibly declined.  
- CSK may be preserving him for **short, high-impact cameos** rather than long innings.  

Team Balance & Batting Order Flexibility**  
- CSK’s middle order (Dube, Jadeja, Mitchell) is packed with power hitters.  
- Dhoni at No.9 allows **specialist batters to maximize the middle overs**, while he handles the death overs.  

---

2. The Ashwin vs. Dhoni Debate**  
In the RCB vs. CSK match, **Ravichandran Ashwin was sent ahead of Dhoni**, sparking outrage. Possible explanations:  

Matchup Tactics**  
- Ashwin was promoted to counter RCB’s spinners (Karn Sharma, Maxwell).  
- Dhoni struggles more against **pace in the death overs**, so CSK may have wanted him to face fast bowlers.  

*Risk Management**  
- If CSK had lost early wickets, Dhoni could have been held back for a **late rescue act**.  
- Unfortunately, the game slipped away before he could make an impact.  

---

3. Is Dhoni at No.9 a Good Strategy?**  
### **Pros:**  
- **Less pressure** – Coming in late allows him to play freely.  
- **Death-over specialist** – Even in his 40s, Dhoni can still hit big in the final 2-3 overs.  
- **Experience in crunch moments** – His calmness helps in close chases.  

*Cons:**  
- **Too late to influence the game** – If CSK collapses early, Dhoni might not get enough balls.  
- **Wasted potential** – A player of his caliber should face more deliveries.  
- **Fans feel cheated** – Supporters want to see more of Dhoni, not just a 5-ball cameo.  

---

4. What Could CSK Do Differently?**  
- **Promote Dhoni to No.7** – Gives him 20-25 balls to make an impact.  
- **Use him as a floater** – Depending on matchups, he could be used against spinners in the middle overs.  
- **Retire after this season** – If his role is reduced to a cameo, is it worth continuing?  

---

5. The Bigger Picture: Is This Dhoni’s Last IPL?**  
- With **CSK transitioning to a new era** (Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain), Dhoni’s role is diminishing.  
- His batting position suggests **he’s no longer the primary match-winner**, but a mentor.  
- If CSK fails to make playoffs, **2024 could be his farewell season**.  

---

Final Verdict: A Calculated Gamble or a Mistake?**  
While Dhoni at No.9 might seem like a **tactical blunder**, CSK’s think tank likely has a plan. However, in crucial matches, **holding back your best finisher until the last over is a risky move**.  

**What do you think?** Should Dhoni bat higher, or is CSK right in using him as a specialist finisher? Let us know in the comments!  

**Key Takeaways:**  
Dhoni’s age & role** limit his batting time.  
 CSK’s middle order** is stacked, reducing his need to bat early.  
Matchups & game situation** dictate his entry point.  
Fans & experts unhappy** – want to see more of Dhoni.  

One thing is certain: When MS Dhoni walks out to bat, even at No.9, the crowd erupts. And that’s the magic of Thala.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search

Category

Gallery

  • gallery
  • gallery
  • gallery
  • gallery
  • gallery
  • gallery

Tags

Social Media

Related Posts

top-news

According to Virat Kohli, Jitesh Sharma has not yet "opened up" to him: "He discovers several methods of..."

top-news

Match 3 of the Tri-series between Sri Lanka Women and South Africa Women: Live Score and News from Colombo

top-news

Watch: Table Toppers Mumbai Indians Celebrate Hardik Pandya's 'Captain’s Knock'