Cheteshwar Pujara Questions CSK Tactics, Demands Higher Batting Position for MS Dhoni
The batting position of MS Dhoni in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lineup remains a primary talking point ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. India Test veteran Cheteshwar Pujara recently questioned the franchise’s strategy of utilizing the legendary wicketkeeper-batter as a lower-order finisher.
The Debate Over Dhoni’s Role
Fitness concerns and strategic shifts have frequently pushed Dhoni down to No. 8 or No. 9 in the batting order over the last two seasons. This positioning leaves him with a limited number of deliveries to influence the match.
Pujara, who won the IPL with CSK during their 2021 championship campaign, argued that Dhoni still possesses the ability to control games if given more time at the crease. Speaking during a recent broadcast interview, Pujara expressed confusion over the tactical decision.
“I don’t see a point in MS Dhoni batting at No. 8 or 9, because he has the potential to turn games around single-handedly, something no other batter in the CSK team can do,” Pujara stated. “If he bats for only five or ten balls, imagine what Mahi bhai can do if he plays 25 or 30 balls.”
MS Dhoni’s Recent IPL Performance
Despite batting lower in the order, Dhoni’s late-game cameos have been highly effective. During the 2024 season, his strike rate exceeded 220, proving his finishing capabilities remain intact even with a restricted ball count.
| IPL Season | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 14 | 161 | 220.54 | 37* |
| 2023 | 16 | 104 | 182.46 | 32* |
CSK Management’s Stance
Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan addressed concerns regarding Dhoni’s availability and specific role for the tournament. Viswanathan confirmed that the former captain is expected to be a regular fixture in the starting lineup.
“He will play all the matches, according to me,” Viswanathan told reporters.
Regarding how the team will deploy Dhoni, Viswanathan clarified that head coach Stephen Fleming and the coaching staff maintain complete control over tactical decisions. The introduction of the Impact Player rule provides the coaching staff with multiple options for managing Dhoni’s workload.
- Specialist Batter: Utilizing Dhoni purely for his hitting abilities.
- Wicketkeeper-Batter: Maintaining his traditional role behind the stumps.
- Impact Player: Subbing him in exclusively for the final overs of an innings.
Dressing Room Culture and Transition
Beyond tactical critiques, Pujara praised the internal environment at Chennai Super Kings. Having observed the franchise’s operations firsthand, he highlighted the clear communication from management.
“In that environment, players are very comfortable; it’s like a family,” Pujara explained. “When you’re in that setup, there is clarity about what is expected of you as a player.”
Pujara noted that BCCI and franchise regulations force teams to adapt over time, but CSK’s core philosophy remains stable. “Loyalty also comes into the picture because most of CSK’s players stay for a long time. There is a transition in the team now, so there is a bit more preference for young players.”
As CSK prepares for the new season, cricket audiences will monitor whether the coaching staff adjusts Dhoni’s position to maximize his offensive output or maintains his highly specialized finishing role. For comprehensive player statistics, visit ESPNcricinfo.