Sanjay Manjrekar on why MS Dhoni didn’t promote himself against Rajasthan Royals: “He is a clever cricketer who knows his limitations.”

Chennai Super Kings are off to a strong start in the Indian Premier League 2023, having won five of their first eight matches and ranking fourth in the standings. Their star-studded batting lineup of Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Ajinkya Rahane, who have all been in stupendous form this season, has contributed significantly to CSK’s success.

However, the ‘MS Dhoni influence’ motivates CSK to put on a strong performance every season. Dhoni is at his utmost best, scoring runs at a strike rate of 196.77 and causing dismissals as a wicketkeeper from behind the stumps, as rumors circulate that this is the legendary captain’s final season. In CSK’s previous match against Rajasthan Royals, ‘Captain Cool’ did not bat when his team needed a ferocious ball-striker like him, with the run rate rising.

Consequently, CSK was unable to track down the 203-run target and lost by 32 runs. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar stated that Dhoni is a shrewd individual who is aware of his limitations, despite the fact that many hoped he would come out to bat and bail out his team.

MS Dhoni is a skilled cricket player. He is aware of his limitations. This season, he is represented by a new avatar. Previously, he managed the team, but this year he is also managing himself, according to Manjrekar of Star Sports.

Before CSK vs. PBKS, Shivam Dube had scored 236 runs in seven innings with an average of 33.71 and a strike rate of 157. Dube has displayed his remarkable hitting prowess in the tournament thus far by hitting ten fours and 19 sixes. Former India cricketer Ravi Shastri praised Shivam Dube for his ruthless power-hitting this season, stating that the batsman can hit sixes simply by remaining in his position, which makes him dangerous.

He is tall and proficient at hitting sixes: Ravi Shastri
“Shivam Dube possesses both range and force. The fact that he is tall and can easily hit sixes simply by standing in his position makes him a dangerous batter. Ravi Shastri, who also participated in the discussion, stated, “The captain has given him permission to simply go out there and explode.”

Bowling has been led by Tushar Deshpande (14 wickets) and Ravindra Jadeja (11 wickets), with other bowlers occasionally contributing wickets. If MS Dhoni decides to retire at the conclusion of the season, the Chennai Super Kings are aiming for their fifth title so that they can bid him a fitting farewell with a championship.