Title: Most of Dhoni’s runs came when matches were out of reach: Aakash
MS Dhoni’s impact on the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a subject of discussion for several years. As the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), he has led the team to numerous successes, including four IPL titles. However, in recent seasons, CSK’s performances have been lackluster, and Dhoni’s batting has been criticized by many. Former India batter Aakash Chopra has added fuel to the fire by stating that most of Dhoni’s runs come when the matches are already out of reach.
In a recent interview, Chopra opined that Dhoni’s batting order has been inconsistent over the last couple of seasons. He stated that the CSK captain has consistently batted at position seven or lower in every single innings. Moreover, Chopra added that Dhoni has batted at positions eight or nine about 45% of the time during this period.
It’s worth noting that Dhoni’s batting average in the IPL has been steadily declining over the years. In the 2019 season, his average was 29.33, while in the 2020 season, it dropped to 24.50. This season, his average is a mere 12.33. While Dhoni’s experience and leadership skills are still undeniable, his batting has become a major concern for CSK.
Chopra’s comments have sparked a heated debate among cricket fans and experts. Some have defended Dhoni’s batting, citing his ability to adapt to situations and his experience in high-pressure games. Others have criticized his batting, stating that he is no longer the player he once was and that his batting order is a hindrance to the team’s overall performance.
One of the main reasons why Dhoni’s batting has become a concern is his lack of consistency. In the 2020 season, he scored just 200 runs in 12 matches, with a highest score of 37. In the 2021 season, his scores were even more dismal, with a highest score of 23. This season, his scores have been similarly poor, with a highest score of 22.
Another issue that has been raised is Dhoni’s lack of aggression in his batting. In the past, Dhoni was known for his ability to take the game away from the opposition with his aggressive batting. However, in recent seasons, he has been more defensive-minded, often batting slowly and allowing the opposition to gain the upper hand.
CSK’s dismal performance in the 2025 season has also raised questions about Dhoni’s role in the team. The team has won just two matches in the first 10 games, and Dhoni’s batting has been a major contributor to their poor form. With the team struggling to score runs, Dhoni’s batting has become a major issue.
In conclusion, Chopra’s comments have sparked a heated debate about Dhoni’s batting. While some have defended his batting, citing his experience and adaptability, others have criticized his batting, stating that it is no longer effective. CSK’s dismal performance in the 2025 season has also raised questions about Dhoni’s role in the team. As the team struggles to score runs, Dhoni’s batting has become a major concern.
