CSK Coach Stephen Fleming explains why MS Dhoni isn’t being promoted up the order

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has been in sensational form this IPL season, but fans are left wanting more as the legendary batsman continues to bat lower down the order.

Dhoni, who usually comes out to bat at number 8 for CSK, has been making a significant impact in his limited time at the crease, often providing fireworks in the final overs. However, fans and cricket pundits alike have questioned why the former Indian captain isn’t being promoted up the order to give him a longer stay at the crease.

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has now come forward to shed light on why Dhoni isn’t being pushed up the order for the franchise.

Speaking after CSK’s recent clash with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Fleming said, “It’s inspirational, isn’t it? His batting this year, even in training, has been very crisp. The team isn’t surprised with what he is doing because his skill level during the preseason was very high. Other years he has obviously had problems with his knee and he is sort of recovering from that which is why there is only a certain amount of balls he can function well.”

Fleming continued, “That 2-3 over cameo, he is owning that space. It is up to the rest of the batting unit to get us sort of in a good position where he can push us over the top, and he is doing that pretty much every time at the moment, which is great to watch. What an amazing atmosphere when he comes out and entertains. We are incredibly proud of what he has achieved and we marvel at the amount of love that he gets. We are incredibly proud that he is part of our side and he is pretty much the heartbeat of our side.”

Dhoni recent 28-run innings off just 9 balls against LSG showcased his incredible hitting prowess. His knock, which included 2 sixes and 3 boundaries, helped CSK post a challenging total of 176/6 in their 20 overs. However, despite Dhoni efforts, LSG, led by skipper KL Rahul and opener Quinton de Kock, chased down the total with relative ease, winning the match by 8 wickets.

As the IPL season progresses, CSK fans will be hoping to see more of Dhoni fireworks, even if it means he continues to bat lower down the order. With Dhoni in such devastating form, the opposition bowlers will certainly have their work cut out for them, regardless of when he comes out to bat.