IPL 2024: CSK Coach Stephen Fleming Breaks Silence On MS Dhoni's Captaincy

Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming has affirmed that MS Dhoni is currently free from any fresh injury concerns, while acknowledging a pre-existing muscle injury before the commencement of the IPL 2024 season.

Despite relinquishing the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, the former CSK skipper has sustained his pivotal role within the franchise. Dhoni’s batting position has notably shifted to later in the innings, with his recent appearance at No. 9 against Punjab Kings exemplifying this adjustment.

“We are meticulously managing his workload. Recognizing the risk highlighted by a minor muscle injury earlier in the season, we’re cautious about his time at the crease. Our aim is to strike a delicate balance where he can make a match-winning impact through aggressive stroke play, a facet he has excelled in, while also maintaining his prowess behind the stumps, arguably among the finest in the competition,” Fleming elaborated.

Fleming further disclosed that Dhoni’s previous injury dictates his lower batting order placement. Nonetheless, Dhoni has contributed significantly to CSK’s cause this season, accumulating 110 runs in 11 matches at an impressive strike rate of 224.49.

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