CSK Grapples with Dhoni's Role as De Villiers Calls for Batting Order Shift
As the Chennai Super Kings prepare for the upcoming IPL season, a critical structural question looms large: where does the legendary MS Dhoni fit in a team undergoing a gradual transition? At 44 years old, Dhoni remains an iconic figure for CSK, but his on-field contributions have notably diminished, sparking debates about his future role.
Diminishing Returns in Lower-Order Batting
Over the past three IPL seasons, Dhoni's batting output has been limited, primarily due to his position low in the order. In 2023, he scored 104 runs, followed by 161 runs in 2024, and 196 runs in 2025, mostly batting at No. 7 or lower. Despite a strike rate exceeding 220 in 2024, his impact has been constrained by facing too few balls to consistently influence match outcomes.
CSK management has acknowledged that fitness and workload considerations often dictate Dhoni's batting opportunities, with the veteran player sometimes choosing when to extend his time at the crease. This has intensified discussions about whether his current role is driven more by sentiment than tangible performance.
De Villiers Advocates for Higher Batting Position or Retirement
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, speaking on Star Sports, has openly questioned Dhoni's placement in the lineup. "I don't see a role for him batting at eight or nine and not really doing enough," de Villiers stated. He emphasized, "There's still a place for him, but he needs to bat higher, at least at six." His comments reflect a growing concern that CSK must prioritize impact over legacy to remain competitive.
De Villiers further highlighted the need for a clearer transition within the CSK setup, endorsing Sanju Samson as part of the next leadership phase while acknowledging Ruturaj Gaikwad's role as the current captain. "It's a tricky situation, but Sanju Samson is the right guy to take over, and credit to Dhoni because he's hung around, waiting for the right person to come," he said. "If MS plays, I want him to put himself under more pressure and be the guy to handle those big moments."
Balancing Legacy with Team Evolution
The dilemma extends beyond cricket, as Dhoni's presence is integral to CSK's identity, driving fan engagement, sponsorships, and viewership. With over 5,400 IPL runs and five titles under his leadership, his legacy is unparalleled. However, former India captain Anil Kumble noted, "Legacy will always be there, but you have to move on at some point."
CSK now faces the challenge of balancing Dhoni's iconic status with the necessity of nurturing new talent. The franchise must decide whether Dhoni will continue as a finisher, transition into a mentorship role, or remain primarily as the face of the team. Until this question is resolved, CSK's transition to a new era remains incomplete, with Gaikwad leading and Samson expected to join the leadership group.
This ongoing debate underscores the broader shift CSK is navigating: building a new core while still relying on Dhoni's enduring influence, a delicate balance that will shape the team's future in the IPL.
