Chris Gayle Defends MS Dhoni Amid Criticism Over Batting Position in IPL 2025
MS Dhoni’s surprise entry at No. 9 during Chennai Super Kings’ clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28 left fans and experts stunned. Despite his 30 off 16 balls*, CSK fell 50 runs short while chasing 197 at Chepauk.
After the loss, frustration among CSK fans led to calls for Dhoni’s retirement, while critics questioned the team’s decision to send him so late in the innings.
Amidst the controversy, West Indies legend Chris Gayle has come forward in strong defense of Dhoni, insisting that the former CSK skipper remains crucial to the IPL and should not be pushed towards retirement.
“MS Dhoni Brings Huge Value to IPL” – Chris Gayle
Speaking to Insidesport, Gayle warned critics about sending the wrong message to an IPL icon like Dhoni and emphasized his continued importance to CSK.
“With Dhoni, he brings a lot of value to the IPL. You want to see him as long as possible and want him to stay. You don’t want to push him out. When you start hearing that noise, it sends the wrong message to such a great player and a great person.”
“Even at No. 11, People Just Want to See Dhoni”
Gayle further highlighted Dhoni’s brilliance behind the stumps and dismissed concerns over his batting position.
“His wicketkeeping is still one of the best, he is still very sharp. It is about how the team wants to use him. Everybody wants to see Dhoni. So, it doesn’t matter where he bats, even at No. 11, as long as people get a glimpse of him.”
The former RCB star also argued that Dhoni’s exit from the IPL could impact the tournament’s value.
“For someone who has won the championship multiple times, if he leaves, the IPL will take a dip. Wherever CSK plays, it’s all about the Whistle Podu army. That is the power and influence Dhoni brings to the league.”
CSK Coach Stephen Fleming Explains Dhoni’s Batting Order
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming addressed concerns over Dhoni batting lower down the order, citing fitness and workload management.
“MS judges it himself. His knees aren’t what they used to be. He’s moving okay, but he can’t bat 10 overs at full intensity. He balances his role depending on the game situation.”
Fleming emphasized that Dhoni’s leadership and wicketkeeping are too valuable to risk overexerting him with a prolonged batting role.
“From around the 13th-14th over, he’s looking to go in, depending on who’s batting. His experience is crucial, and he backs his teammates to step up.”
What’s Next for CSK?
After a rough start to IPL 2025, CSK will aim to bounce back against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk on April 5.
Will Dhoni take up a higher batting position this time? Fans will be eager to see if the CSK legend proves his critics wrong once again!
