In a remarkable display reminiscent of his prime, MS Dhoni turned the time with the bat in a thrilling DC vs CSk IPL 2024 clash. The atmosphere at Visakhapatnam was electric as Dhoni stepped onto the field, igniting the crowd with anticipation. Despite Chennai Super Kings struggling at 120/6 in 16.1 overs, Dhoni’s arrival infused excitement.
“When MS Dhoni walked out, it felt like Chennai had won. The ground, the atmosphere, the noise when he walks onto the field is phenomenal. And again, I think it’s great that not only is he walking out to bat for his fans, but I think the way he played. “ former Australia captain Michael Clarke said speaking to Star Sports
He blazed through the opposition, smashing 37 runs off just 16 deliveries, including 3 sixes and 4 fours. Dhoni’s innings commenced with a boundary, drawing thunderous applause from the spectators.
He’s going to be needed, there’s no doubt about it, throughout this tournament and probably needed when they’re under maximum pressure, especially if he’s going to bat where he’s batting, down so low in the order. But again, his power, his timing, from ball one, first ball come out of the middle. So yeah, it was brilliant to see MS Dhoni out here and the fans certainly loved it.” added Clarke
Should MS Dhoni be moved up in order?
Although CSK ultimately lost the game, Dhoni’s explosive performance captivated fans and experts alike, prompting calls for him to be promoted in the batting order.
Australian star Steve Smith echoed the fans’ sentiments, demanding Dhoni to be promoted up in the middle order.
” Let’s get him up the order. I think he did not miss the middle of the bat tonight. That was just incredible to witness. I think Jadeja, throughout the other end, was actually struggling to find the middle. They bowled really well to him but MS got there on strike. Obviously, in his first ball to the boundary and then from there, he just barely missed the middle of the bat. It was great to watch and I think the fans want to see him getting up the order and keep doing it more often.”
However, cricket great Clarke differed in his opinion stating how Dhoni would likely continue in his role as a finisher.
“I don’t think he will. He’ll stay where he is. I think every MS Dhoni fan wants to see him as high up the order as possible. I think we’ve all said throughout his career, he should open the batting. But look, he’s at a stage of his career where he’s down from the captaincy. I don’t think he’ll come up the order.” said Clarke.
I think if there’s a game on the line and he needs to go up the order because it’s what’s best for the team, I’m sure he will. But I think just because he’s hitting the ball so well, I don’t think you’ll see him batting in the top five or top six. I think he’s a genius at the dance. He’s probably the best finisher I’ve ever seen. So, I think they’ll continue to utilize him in that role.” he concluded.
After their defeat, CSK have fallen down to second position in the standings with four points in three matches (two wins and a defeat). They will now travel to Hyderabad to play Pat Cummins and co.
