Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has stirred up controversy with his recent criticism of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) former captain MS Dhoni‘s decision to promote himself to the No. 9 position during a crucial match. Pathan’s remarks come in the wake of CSK’s defeat against Punjab Kings, where MS Dhoni‘s unorthodox batting order raised eyebrows across the cricketing world. In a scathing assessment, Pathan emphasized the need for someone to address Dhoni’s questionable strategy, suggesting that such decisions could impact the team’s performance and raise concerns among fans and pundits alike.
MS Dhoni batting at no.9 position doesn’t work for CSK- Irfan Pathan
In the high-stakes world of cricket, every strategic decision made by team captains is subject to intense scrutiny. Recently, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni found himself at the center of controversy when he opted to promote himself to the No. 9 position during a crucial match against Punjab Kings. This unorthodox move raised eyebrows and sparked heated debate among fans and experts alike.
Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, known for his candid analysis, didn’t shy away from voicing his opinion on Dhoni’s tactical maneuver. Pathan’s critique delved into the rationale behind Dhoni’s decision and its potential implications for the team’s overall performance. By dissecting the move, Pathan highlighted the importance of strategic batting orders in the context of modern-day cricket, where every run counts and momentum can shift in an instant. He said:
“MS Dhoni batting at No.9 doesn’t work for CSK, it’s doesn’t help the team’s cause. I know that he is 42, but he is in solid form. He should be taking the responsibility of batting up the order. He should bat for at least 4 to 5 overs. He is batting for the last over or last 2 overs and that doesn’t serve the purpose for CSK for a long term,” Irfan Pathan told Star Sports as quoted by India Today.
“Yes, he made an impact against Mumbai, but here, when the team needed him, you can’t send Shardul Thakur ahead of yourself. You can’t see Dhoni batting at No.9. Sameer Rizvi was also padded up in the 15th over. They need to work out something; someone has to tell Dhoni, ‘Come on mate, bat for 4 overs’,” he added.
Pathan’s assessment goes beyond mere criticism; it serves as a wake-up call for CSK and its fans to reflect on the team’s strategic approach under Dhoni’s leadership. With the IPL being one of the most fiercely competitive cricket tournaments globally, every decision made on the field can make or break a team’s campaign. As such, Pathan’s bold take underscores the need for introspection and perhaps a reassessment of CSK’s tactical playbook as they navigate the challenges of the IPL season.