Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni can be a threat with the bat only if he bats enough balls. Dhoni is looking out of touch in the ongoing IPL 2021 and his slow innings against Delhi Capitals has brought him under criticism.

Gambhir was asked if Dhoni is still a threat to the opposition bowling line-up on ESPNcricinfo. Responding to the question, the ex-India opener replied, "He needs to bat to be a threat. He doesn't bat enough balls in the game, so he needs to bat first."

Cricketer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop agreed with Gambhir's opinion on Dhoni's form. Bishop feels all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja should get more batting opportunities as he has shown his abilities in this tournament already.

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"Yeah, Dhoni doesn't seem to be firing so there are other guys, certainly Ravindra Jadeja, that I would like to see get more batting opportunities. I think we've seen that over the course of this season, Dhoni doesn't seem like he'll recapture his form," he said.

Super Kings finally gave a chance to Robin Uthappa this season, against Delhi, but he couldn't utilize the opportunity. Gambhir and Bishop want CSK to sit out Suresh Raina one more match and continue playing Uthappa.

"100% because you don't want to give someone just one game and he's probably going to come good in the next game and the playoffs," Gambhir said. 

Bishop added, "For me, yes, I would stick to Robin Uthappa because Suresh Raina has foreseen over a longer course this season and for me, hasn't shown any goods. So I won't give Robin just one game, I'll give him another."

Chennai are facing Punjab Kings in their last league match and they have already qualified for the playoffs. CSK captain MS Dhoni confirmed they are going ahead with the same playing eleven which gives Uthappa another chance. 

(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)