Dhoni Batting Position Explained: Stephen Fleming Breaks Silence on MS Dhoni’s Role for CSK in IPL 2025

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has finally addressed the ongoing debate around Dhoni batting late in the innings during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Fans have been consistently vocal about their desire to see Mahendra Singh Dhoni bat earlier, especially in tight chases. However, Fleming has now clarified that Dhoni batting higher in the order is not always feasible due to physical limitations and match dynamics.

In CSK’s recent narrow defeat to Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, Dhoni batting became a hot topic again. Chasing 183, CSK fell short by just six runs. Dhoni walked in with CSK needing 54 runs from 25 balls and scored a quickfire 16 off 11 deliveries. Though he couldn’t finish the game, his brief innings reignited the question: why didn’t Dhoni batting happen earlier?

Why Dhoni Doesn’t Bat Early: Fleming Gives Clarity

Stephen Fleming addressed the media after the match and delivered a detailed explanation regarding Dhoni batting late in the order. The veteran coach was candid about Dhoni’s current physical condition and how that impacts his timing at the crease.

“Yeah, it’s a time thing. MS judges it. His body is… his knees aren’t what they used to be. And he’s moving okay, but there’s still an attrition aspect to it. He can’t bat ten overs running full stick,” said Fleming.

This was a clear message that expecting Dhoni batting from the 9th or 10th over mark is unrealistic at this stage of his career. According to Fleming, Dhoni evaluates the situation mid-game and decides when he can contribute most effectively.

Dhoni Batting Strategy: Role Still Crucial

While there may be disappointment among fans about not seeing Dhoni batting early, Fleming emphasized how vital Dhoni’s presence still is for CSK. Not only as a finisher, but also as a tactical mastermind behind the stumps and a leader in pressure situations.

“I said it last year [as well], he’s too valuable to us – leadership and wicket-keeping – to throw him in nine-ten overs. He has actually never done that. So, look, from around 13-14 overs, he’s looking to go depending on who’s in,” added the CSK coach.

This reveals that Dhoni batting is more of a tactical move and not just dependent on the batting order or match-ups. Dhoni, despite being in the twilight of his career, continues to command strategic respect within the dressing room.

Previous Criticism Over Batting Order

The decision to send Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin ahead of Dhoni batting in CSK’s previous match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) drew plenty of criticism from fans and pundits alike. Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra publicly questioned the logic behind not promoting Dhoni at that point in the game.

“Ashwin ahead of Dhoni vs RCB didn’t make sense,” Chopra had said.

However, Dhoni batting is not just about popularity or public sentiment—it’s a carefully calculated component of CSK’s strategy. As Fleming indicated, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter has a clear role that aligns with his physical condition and match-readiness.

What Dhoni Brings to CSK—Beyond Batting

While fans clamour for more of Dhoni batting, it’s crucial to recognize his other contributions. His sharp glovework, calm under pressure, and invaluable experience provide CSK with stability. Fleming reinforced that Dhoni’s leadership remains central to CSK’s approach in IPL 2025.

In a team full of young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube, Dhoni’s mentorship continues to influence both strategy and morale. Even if Dhoni batting doesn’t light up the scoreboard every night, his guidance is a big part of why CSK remains one of the most consistent IPL franchises.

CSK’s Batting Challenges in IPL 2025

Despite Dhoni batting late, CSK’s real issue might lie deeper in their overall batting strategy. Against Rajasthan Royals, they allowed Nitish Rana to take the game away in the powerplay. Even though Dhoni’s cameo brought CSK close, the early damage was hard to repair.

As Fleming noted, it’s not always about when Dhoni batting happens, but how the rest of the team positions themselves by that stage of the game.

Fans Still Want to See More of Dhoni Batting

Even with all the rational explanations, CSK fans will continue to hope for more of Dhoni batting. The emotional connection between Dhoni and the Chennai crowd is unmatched. Every time he walks onto the pitch, stadiums erupt in deafening chants of “Dhoni! Dhoni!”—a sentiment rarely matched in world cricket.

While his body might not allow Dhoni batting for long stretches, even a short stay at the crease brings immense joy to fans and often has a real impact on the game.

What’s Next for CSK and Dhoni?

CSK currently sits in the middle of the points table with plenty of cricket still to play in IPL 2025. With crucial matches lined up, especially against the likes of Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, the role of Dhoni batting will continue to remain a talking point.

Stephen Fleming has made it clear that Dhoni batting will be used smartly, keeping in mind the demands of each match. Whether it’s 10 balls or 30, when Dhoni steps onto the field, he brings with him a legacy of calm, skill, and unmatched cricketing intellect.

In conclusion, while Dhoni batting might not follow traditional timelines anymore, it’s a vital cog in CSK’s machine. Fans might want more, but CSK knows exactly when and how to unleash their most trusted weapon.