MS Dhoni Fitness: Chennai Super Kings’ batting mentor, Michael Hussey, recently delivered an update on the physical condition of Mahendra Singh Dhoni during the exciting clash between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. Dhoni, who is nearing the twilight of his career, has been displaying remarkable determination by playing despite grappling with a knee injury. His struggles have been evident as he has been observed limping on several occasions and even resorting to using an ice pack on his knee after matches.
Hussey further affirmed that Dhoni’s knee injury has hindered his ability to achieve full fitness, which is why he has been batting in lower positions in the batting order during the last two or three overs. In the match against Delhi Capitals, Dhoni entered the crease during the penultimate over and managed to score 5 runs off 4 balls.
During the break between innings, CSK’s batting coach, Hussey, shared, “Currently, Dhoni’s knee isn’t functioning at its optimum capacity, hence he’s managing himself and coming to bat in the final 2-3 overs. He can’t run as smoothly as he did during his prime, but he’s adapting well and striking the ball impressively.”
‘Dhoni’s knee still isn’t at its best’ – Mike Hussey reveals the adversity MS Dhoni is bravely facing to contribute to CSK’s success
Chennai Super Kings defeated Delhi Capitals in their last league game to qualify for the IPL 2023 playoffs. CSK dominated the home side at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, claiming early wickets. Deepak Chahar proved to be instrumental with three dismissals, unsettling the opening batsmen of DC.
David Warner and Yash Dhull made valiant efforts to revive Delhi Capitals’ chase, with Warner inching closer to his half-century. However, Chennai Super Kings maintained complete control during the powerplay, limiting Delhi Capitals to 146 for 9 while pursuing a target of 224.
Earlier in the match, Chennai Super Kings’ opening batsmen, Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad, stitched together another magnificent partnership of 100 runs, propelling CSK to an imposing total of 223/3. Conway showcased his prowess by scoring 87 runs off 52 balls, while Gaikwad hammered an impressive 79 runs off 50 balls. Shivam Dube provided a quick 22 runs off just 9 balls, and Ravindra Jadeja contributed a blazing 20 runs off a mere 7 balls, adding a flourish to the innings.
