IPL 2020: Is MS Dhoni the missing piece in puzzle for CSK?

MS Dhoni

It is still the early days of IPL 2020 with the teams trying out the various combinations to find their best playing XI going forward. While some teams have found their mojo, a few are yet to get it all sorted. Unfortunately for Chennai Super Kings, the ride so far has been quite bumpy with a solitary win in three games.

CSK find themselves in a uncharted territory after not having the best of starts in IPL 2020. Despite being bottom placed in the current standings, what would worry MS Dhoni more is the manner of the defeats. After a relatively easy outing against the defending champions, CSK have struggled in their next two games. Even though they still back themselves to chase any target in a Dhoni-esque approach, they are yet to strike the right cords.

The pulling out of Raina and Harbhajan have been a body blow for the two time champions, with Ambati Rayadu’s injury rubbing salt in their wounds. With the openers struggling, it has been Faf du Plessis who has waged a lone battle for them.

Ex CSK allrounder Irfan Pathan acknowledged CSK’s issues and attributed the same to multiple factors. Speaking at Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected, Irfan said, “For the first time, it is looking that the Chennai Super Kings team is not settled. They had problems before the start of the IPL, Suresh Raina went back and they have not taken a replacement for him till now.”

CSK’s dilemna: Where does MS bat?

The batting position of MS has also raised quite a few eyebrows after CSK failed to chase down a target for two consecutive games. Irfan echoed the expert opinions and talked about the importance of Dhoni.

atting higher up the order. “The teams which have been playing with an additional bowler in the IPL are looking stronger. More than a finisher, MS Dhoni is himself such a great finisher.”

He added, “He needs to ensure that he plays at least 10 overs and Chennai Super Kings must field an extra bowler. Then the rest of the things will be set.”

Ironically Dhoni had clarified that lack of proper match practice was the reason behind his batting position at No.7 in the game against the Royals. Though he finished off with a few lusty blows, it was not enough for CSK to topple Steven Smith & Co.

Rayadu’s return is all set to bolster the CSK lineup, but Dhoni’s batting position will attract the most eyeballs against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Can the Super Kings skipper turn around their fortunes with the willow?

Also Read: IPL 2020: CSK likely to terminate contracts with Raina and Harbhajan