Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni made a similar start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as he did in the previous edition. The 39-year old is batting at number seven or eight for his side and the fans keep gazing at him to do wonders on the field.
However, the wicketkeeper-batsman could score a paltry 200 runs in 14 matches during IPL 2020. Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara feels that Dhoni can take some rest this season without any added pressure as the Chennai-based franchise has an extended batting order.
“I don’t think they should be asking for too much effort from MS Dhoni with the bat,” Lara said on Star Sports.
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“Of course, he got the gloves in his hands, he has got to take the catches and do the stumpings. But I find that batting order is so long, Dhoni can take some rest,” he added.
Dhoni must concentrate on captaincy: Lara
MS Dhoni’s batting form might have dipped in recent years but he is still as good a captain as anybody else in professional cricket. Lara mentioned that the CSK skipper has got Sam Curran in his side who can finish the games on Dhoni’s behalf. He added that MSD must concentrate on his captaincy as that holds the key for Chennai in this season.
“We want him in form, we know how destructive he can be but he has got so many good players. Look at Sam Curran, who is in great form. He comes in and hits from ball one straightaway,” Brian Lara further added.
“I think they have got a very good team. A good leader who is inspirational. If he concentrates on that aspect of it, getting every single individual performing, they can go all the way,” Lara signed off.
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