MS Dhoni Opens Up on Batting Lower in CSK’s Lineup: ‘It Takes Some Pressure Off Me’

In Match 8 of IPL 2025, MS Dhoni surprised fans by walking out to bat at No. 9 during Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) chase of 197 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). With the game slipping away, many questioned why a finisher of Dhoni’s caliber was batting so late in the order. Addressing the speculation in an interview with JioHotstar, Dhoni explained the reasoning behind his approach and confirmed that this strategy is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Prioritizing Team Balance Over Personal Impact

Before the season began, Dhoni had already hinted at his lower batting position. He revealed that last year, he consciously stepped back to allow Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja more time at the crease, particularly to enhance their selection chances for the T20 World Cup. He also emphasized that CSK wasn’t suffering as a result, as the batters above him were fulfilling their roles effectively.

“If you look at our squad, who were the T20 World Cup contenders? Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) and Shivam Dube were in the mix, so I wanted to give them more chances. I don’t need to be selected; I’m not competing for a spot,” Dhoni explained.

CSK followed a similar batting order against RCB, with Sam Curran, Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin all batting ahead of Dhoni. It was only after Ashwin’s dismissal that the former CSK captain walked in. Though the game was nearly out of reach, Dhoni entertained fans with an unbeaten 30 off 16 balls, including two massive sixes in the final over against Krunal Pandya.

Similarly, in CSK’s first match of the season, Dhoni came in at No. 8 when victory was nearly sealed, with only four runs needed.

‘Why Fix Something That Ain’t Broken?’

While some have questioned Dhoni’s reluctance to bat higher, the CSK legend made it clear that his approach is dictated by team performance, not personal preference.

“If the batters ahead of me weren’t delivering, the strategy would change. But they’re doing their job well, so why fix something that isn’t broken?” Dhoni stated.

He further added, “This decision is benefiting everyone. It takes some pressure off me while giving others the opportunity to take more responsibility.”

RCB Breaks 17-Year Curse at Chepauk

Despite Dhoni’s late cameo, CSK fell short in their chase as RCB secured a dominant 50-run victory—their first win in Chennai in 17 years. The Rajat Patidar-led side successfully defended 196, with Josh Hazlewood taking three wickets, while Yash Dayal and Liam Livingstone chipped in with two each.

While CSK fans may hope to see Dhoni bat higher in the order, the former captain remains firm on his decision, prioritizing team balance and long-term gains over individual heroics.