MS Dhoni’s decision to bat at No. 9 surprised fans and cricket experts during CSK’s IPL 2024 match against PBKS in Dharamsala on Sunday (May 5).

Throughout this IPL edition, the 42-year-old has typically entered the batting lineup with just a couple of overs remaining in the Super Kings’ innings.

Although Dhoni has performed admirably in the death overs, he suffered a setback when he was dismissed for a golden duck against PBKS at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. Harshal Patel bowled him out with a slower Yorker.

Dhoni’s move to demote himself to the No. 9 spot caused a stir, prompting former India spinner Harbhajan Singh to suggest that Dhoni should consider dropping himself and adding an extra bowler if he cannot bat in such situations.

However, a report in TOI suggests that Dhoni’s lower-order appearances are more of a necessity due to his health condition. It’s reported that Dhoni is taking medication before taking the field or batting and is actively trying to minimize his running.

The report indicates that Dhoni is playing through a muscle tear in his leg throughout the IPL, which significantly hampers his ability to run. This injury occurred earlier in the season, and had Devon Conway, the team’s second wicketkeeper, not been injured as well, Dhoni might have opted to take a break.

A source close to the developments highlighted, “We are virtually playing with our ‘B’ team. Those who are criticizing Dhoni don’t know the sacrifice that he is making for this team.”

Despite leading CSK to victory in IPL 2023 despite a knee injury, Dhoni underwent surgery after the conclusion of the last IPL season.

Although Dhoni regained full fitness before IPL 2024, the muscle tear he sustained earlier this season severely limits his mobility on the field. During practice sessions, he avoids running altogether and focuses on his batting skills. Additionally, any running between the wickets exacerbates the injury.

On the eve of the IPL 2024 opener, MS Dhoni relinquished the captaincy of CSK and handed it over to Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Despite his injury, Dhoni remains an influential figure for the new captain Gaikwad. Gaikwad’s captaincy is described as “still a work in progress,” and even if CSK fail to qualify for the playoffs, he will not be removed from the captaincy.

“He is giving his best, and we believe we will go much beyond just making the playoffs,” the source affirmed.