NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Mike Hussey has shed light on skipper MS Dhoni‘s approach of batting down the order, citing his knee injury as the reason. Hussey stated, “It’s pretty clear that he likes to come in the last few overs, that’s his plan. His knee has not been 100 percent, and he’s trying to get through the matches as best as he can throughout the tournament. He doesn’t want to come in early and have to run quick doubles, putting pressure on the knee.”
Hussey acknowledged Dhoni’s preference to delay his entry into the game in order to make a significant impact in the latter stages of the innings. Dhoni puts faith in his teammates, as Hussey explained, “He shows a lot of backing and faith in the likes of Dube, Jadeja, Rahane, and Rayudu to do the job before he comes in.”
Despite Dhoni being seen limping and facing difficulties while running between the wickets, he has continued to keep wickets and contribute with valuable cameos. Reflecting on Dhoni’s commitment, Hussey added, “He’s trying to get through the matches as best as he can throughout the tournament.” Hussey mentioned Dhoni’s lap of honor around the Chepauk with an ice pack on his knee after a recent match against KKR.

Praising Dhoni’s impact and the support he receives, Hussey emphasized, “The support we have got is incredibly everywhere, it has blown us away. MS is a legend of the game.”
He further expressed his belief that Dhoni can continue playing for the next five years, stating, “He’s still batting very well, is still motivated to coming into training and working on his game and hitting the ball well… He’s still got the six-hitting ability, while he’s enjoying it and is contributing to the team then there is no reason why he can’t keep going for maybe another five years.”

Hussey also highlighted the impressive performance of Shivam Dube in his designated role in the middle-order. He credited Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming for providing Dube with clarity and support, saying, “A lot of credit goes to MS and Fleming, they have given him a lot of clarity and backing in his role.” Hussey commended Dube’s adaptability and power, emphasizing the team’s intention to make the most of his abilities.
Speaking about the team’s progress, Hussey noted the improvement in CSK’s bowling attack as the season has advanced. He highlighted the bowlers’ execution under pressure and the confidence brought by the inclusion of Matheesha Pathirana as the primary death bowler, stating, “Having someone like Matheesha, who has been our no. 1 death bowler, has added confidence to the group.”
(With inputs from PTI)