NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings suffered their sixth defeat of the season on Friday, losing by 35 runs against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan's outstanding centuries propelled GT to a formidable total of 231/3, ultimately proving too challenging for CSK to chase down as they were restricted to 196/8.
Despite the loss, the highlight of the match was MS Dhoni's valiant effort with the bat. Arriving at No.8, Dhoni showcased his trademark big-hitting prowess, smashing three towering sixes in the final over. However, his heroics were not enough to salvage the match for CSK.
Throughout IPL 2024, Dhoni's batting position has been a subject of debate, with many questioning his placement in the lower order. Former cricketer Virender Sehwag weighed in on the discussion, urging for an end to the debate surrounding Dhoni's number.
"We should end the debate around MS Dhoni's batting position. He knows what he wants to do. It's his wish. But if you want to win the match, the form he is in, and the strike rate that he's batting at... the other batters need to play at a similar level," Sehwag emphasized.
"I don't want to get into the debate. Wherever he bats, it's fine. He played fine, entertained the public, who cares if they win or lose? He entertained the public, that's it," Sehwag further said.
Earlier, CSK's head coach, Stephen Fleming, defended Dhoni's batting position, highlighting the veteran's influence on the team.
"Don't underestimate his influence on the team just because he comes in at No. 9. There's a timing aspect, but we're very wary of what he can give us. And we'll max that out," Fleming asserted.
Fleming also emphasized the importance of managing Dhoni's workload to prevent injuries, affirming that the wicketkeeper-batter remains a crucial asset to the team's success.
