'Dhoni avoids strain of running quick doubles' - MS Dhoni's knee struggles dictate batting strategy in IPL, reveals Mike Hussey

Chennai Super Kings' batting coach, Mike Hussey, has shed light on skipper MS Dhoni's approach in the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, revealing that the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter prefers to bat down the order to protect his dodgy knee. Dhoni has been nursing a knee injury throughout the tournament but has continued to keep wickets in every game. Despite his injury, he has made valuable contributions towards the end of the innings, often batting as low as number 8.

Hussey acknowledged Dhoni's strategy, stating, "I think it's pretty clear that he likes to come in the last few overs, that's his plan." He further explained that Dhoni aims to delay his entry into the batting lineup as long as possible to have a significant impact late in the innings. By doing so, Dhoni avoids the strain of running quick doubles, which would put pressure on his knee. Instead, he trusts his teammates such as Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, and Ambati Rayudu to fulfil the batting responsibilities before he takes the crease.

“It’s been well documented that his knee has not been a 100 per cent and he’s trying to get through the matches as best as he can throughout the tournament. So I think, he doesn’t want to come in the 10th, 11th or 12th over and have to run those quick doubles all the time, that’s going to put pressure on the knee, " said the former CSK batter.

Dhoni's knee troubles became apparent during a recent match against the Delhi Capitals, where he was seen limping and struggled with running between the wickets. Following CSK's loss to the Kolkata Knight Riders, Dhoni even completed a lap of honor around the Chepauk with an ice pack strapped to his knee. Despite the challenges, Dhoni has received immense support from fans during CSK's away matches.

Positive about MS Dhoni's and CSK's future

Speaking about Dhoni's future, Hussey expressed confidence in the veteran batter's abilities and suggested that he could continue playing in the IPL for another five years. Hussey commended Dhoni's form, motivation, and six-hitting ability, emphasizing that as long as he enjoys the game and contributes to the team's success, there is no reason for him to consider retirement.

Hussey also highlighted the success of Shivam Dube, who has been performing exceptionally well this season. Batting in the middle-order, Dube has excelled in the role assigned to him by CSK, displaying his power-hitting skills. Hussey credited Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming for providing Dube with clarity and support in his role, allowing him to adapt based on the game's situation.

Additionally, Hussey acknowledged the improvement in CSK's bowling attack as the season progressed. He praised the bowlers' practice and execution under pressure, singling out Matheesha Pathirana as the team's primary death bowler, whose presence has bolstered the group's confidence.

Mike Hussey's comments provide insights into MS Dhoni's strategy of batting down the order to protect his knee, as well as the support and impact he brings to the Chennai Super Kings. Hussey's praise for Dube's role clarity and the team's improved bowling further underscores CSK's strengths in the IPL.