Concerns raised over MS Dhoni’s fitness as he leads CSK to a win against DC in IPL 2023
Former India captain MS Dhoni helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secure a 27-run victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 encounter.
The 41-year-old’s quickfire 20 off nine balls proved to be a game-changing performance, but concerns were raised over his fitness as he was seen limping while running between the wickets.
CSK in trouble before Dhoni’s heroics
With CSK struggling at 126/6, Ambati Rayudu was removed by Khaleel Ahmed. However, Dhoni’s entry into the crease with the bat turned things around for the team as he played some brilliant shots in the death overs.
During the match, Dhoni was seen limping while running between the wickets. The veteran cricketer majorly dealt in boundaries, with his cameo studded with two sixes and a four, but he was seen limping when he was rotating the strike with Ravindra Jadeja.
Former India cricketer and ace commentator Irfan Pathan took to Twitter to note the same and expressed his concerns about Dhoni’s fitness. He praised Dhoni’s efforts and said, “Seeing Dhoni limping thru running between the wickets breaks my heart. Have seen him run like a cheetah.”
Dhoni’s heroics towards the end
Despite his struggles, Dhoni tried his best to go for the big shots. In his short span on the field, he faced nine deliveries, hit two sixes, a four, two singles, and a double, while others were dot balls. His heroics towards the end of the game, after Shivam Dube’s blitzkrieg in the middle, helped CSK get to a respectable total against Delhi.
After the first innings, a victory looked difficult for CSK, but their bowlers were brilliant, with Matheesha Pathirana finishing with three wickets to his name, Deepak Chahar picking up two, and Jadeja finishing with 1/19 in four overs at an economy of 4.75.
While Dhoni’s heroics helped CSK grab the win, his fitness concerns were a point of worry for the team and his fans. As one of the most successful captains in IPL history, Dhoni’s fitness will be crucial for CSK’s chances in the tournament.
