Truth Behind Dhoni's No. 9 Stunt Out, Harbhajan, Irfan Made To Eat Words

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni surprised everyone as he came out to bat at the No. 9 spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Punjab Kings Seeing Shardul Thakur walk out to bat ahead of Dhoni in the match, many fans and experts were left baffled. Former India cricketers like Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh also launched a stern attack at the wicket-keeper batter over the decision, suggesting he shouldn't even be a part of the team if he wants to bat so low in the order. But, it has now been reported that the reason behind Dhoni's delayed arrival is down to an injury.

In a report by the Times of India, Dhoni is carrying a muscle tear in his leg which prevents him from running too long on the field. Hence, the veteran cricketer isn't keen in coming out to bat too early for CSK, as running between the wickets is an issue for him.

A couple of games ago, Dhoni was slammed for sending back non-striker Daryl Mitchell despite there being the possibility of a clear double. In the same game, Dhoni was later run-out, a form of dismissal that isn't too synonymous with the legendary cricketer.

"We are virtually playing with our 'B' team. Those who are criticizing Dhoni don't know the sacrifice that he is doing for this team," the report quoted a source as saying.

The report further said that had Devon Conway, team's second wicket-keeper batter, been available, Dhoni would've given him a rest from a few matches at the least.

Dhoni is reportedly taking medicines before coming out on the pitch and trying to minise his running in order to not aggravate the injury. Though the doctors have suggested him rest, Dhoni doesn't have any option but to play.

Even last year, Dhoni had suffered plenty of injury troubles. He had to play many matches for CSK in IPL 2023 while carrying a knee injury. After the end of the season, Dhoni even went under the knife for the same trouble.

CSK have been dealing with many injury problems this season. Devon Conway has already been ruled out while Matheesha Pathirana has also returned him because of an injury. Even marquee Indian pacer Deepak Chahar is unlikely to make a comeback in this campaign because of a leg injury.