Most of Dhoni’s runs came when matches were out of reach: Aakash
MS Dhoni, the legendary wicket-keeper batsman, has been a cornerstone of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception. However, his recent performances have raised questions about his impact on the team. Former India batter Aakash Chopra has opined that most of Dhoni’s runs come when the matches are already out of reach, which has sparked a debate about his role in the team.
In an interview, Aakash Chopra said, “Over the last couple of seasons, Dhoni has consistently batted at position seven or lower in every single innings…He has batted at positions eight or nine about 45% of the time during this period.” This statement has significant implications for Dhoni’s role in the team, as it suggests that he is not a key player in the top seven, but rather a lower-order batsman who scores runs when the match is already decided.
Dhoni’s batting position has been a topic of discussion in the past as well. In the 2025 IPL campaign, he has batted at number seven or lower in every single innings, which has raised questions about his effectiveness as a top-order batsman. His average in the lower middle-order has been impressive, but it is not enough to justify his position in the top seven.
Aakash Chopra’s statement is not without merit. Dhoni’s runs have often come when the match is already out of reach, and he has not been able to play a decisive role in the outcome of the game. In the 2025 IPL campaign, CSK has struggled to post competitive totals, and Dhoni’s inability to contribute significantly to the team’s batting effort has been a major factor in their dismal performance.
However, it is also important to note that Dhoni’s role in the team goes beyond just his batting. He is an experienced captain who has led CSK to three IPL titles, and his presence in the team provides a sense of stability and calm. He is also an excellent finisher who can score runs under pressure, which is an invaluable asset in T20 cricket.
Despite his impressive record as a finisher, Dhoni’s inability to play a more prominent role in the top seven has raised questions about his relevance in the team. His age is also a factor, as he is now 40 years old and his batting form has declined significantly in recent years. While he is still an excellent wicket-keeper, his batting has not been as effective as it once was, and CSK may need to consider alternatives to him in the top seven.
In conclusion, Aakash Chopra’s statement that most of Dhoni’s runs come when the matches are already out of reach raises important questions about his role in the CSK team. While he is still an excellent finisher and an experienced captain, his inability to play a more prominent role in the top seven has made him a subject of debate. CSK will need to carefully consider its options and decide whether Dhoni remains an integral part of the team or if it is time to look for alternative options.
