Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will kick off the upcoming Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Friday, March 22, at Chepauk Stadium.
This IPL 2024 opener will mark MS Dhoni's return to competitive cricket after the last IPL. However, there's uncertainty about the former CSK skipper’s role this year. Actually, Dhoni had a knee surgery last year; although he is fit for the upcoming season, questions surround his role on the team.
CSK faces batting order issues with players like Devon Conway and Shivam Dube injured and Ambati Rayudu retired. However, the defending champions bought Rachin Ravindra in the last auction, but there's speculation about Dhoni potentially moving up in the batting order.
Well, former Indian all-rounder and commentator Irfan Pathan believes that Dhoni's knee won't prompt a change in his batting position in the upcoming IPL 2024.
Irfan Pathan said on Star Sports: “Last year, Dhoni said he was giving a gift to his fans with his cricket. I met with him a few days ago, he was playing pickleball for two hours non-stop. His knee was fit as it ever was. It's an exciting time for fans; he now has his vintage old look.”
He continued, “Will we get the vintage old Dhoni too? His role has changed in the past two years. He comes in lower-order, plays lesser deliveries but hits the big shots, the strike rate is high. It's a small innings but a memorable one.”
Pathan signed off by saying, “I think there won't be much of a change in that this year. He will continue to play that role, and would want to contribute with his captaincy. But there won't be complaints if he treats the fans with more.”
(With Star Sports Inputs)
