MS Dhoni is the most successful IPL captain. Here are three reasons why he could have a successful IPL 2023 campaign for CSK. He has an outstanding record as a captain and finisher.
While playing for the Rising Pune Supergiants and Chennai Super Kings, the former India captain has scored 4,978 runs in 206 innings at an average of 39.19 and a strike rate of 135.19. As captain, Dhoni also led CSK to four titles: 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021.
However, the performances of the wicketkeeper-batsman over the past three seasons have not met his high standards. At a pitiful strike rate of 117 and a pitiful average of 25 over 35 innings, he has scored 546 runs. The great finisher clearly has reached the end of his career, with the exception of a few performances.
However, it would be foolish to disregard a legend like MS Dhoni. There are three reasons why MSD and CSK could have a successful season together this time around.
1. Could be MS Dhoni’s final IPL season
According to rumors, this could be MS Dhoni’s final IPL season. This would undoubtedly provide him with additional motivation to perform to the best of his abilities and win.
The team’s practice sessions have already begun, and the former India captain has been working hard. He will undoubtedly want to leave the competition with a victory.
2. Experience of playing in Chepauk
Having played in Chepauk, CSK will return to their home field after three years of waiting. To see their idol Dhoni play in what could be his final season, fans will be absolutely ecstatic. The great man’s home support will be overwhelming, and it will undoubtedly motivate him and his team.
Let’s look at the numbers instead of our feelings. He is one of the most dangerous T20 batters in Chepauk, where records indicate that the wicket favors spinners and is typically very slow.
For a middle-order batter in those circumstances, his record of 1,362 runs scored in 48 innings at an average of 44 and a strike rate of 143 is outrageous.
MS Dhoni, the batter, might just need to play seven matches at the field that best suits his game to have a successful season.
3. Ben Stokes’s addition to the team
Ben Stokes’s addition to the batting lineup gives CSK a stronger lineup. Since last season, CSK hasn’t changed much with their team. Ben Stokes, on the other hand, was a significant addition that they made. The Chennai-based franchise may be able to greatly benefit from having the current captain of England in the Test team.
Even though Stokes isn’t the best T20 player in the game, the Super Kings might just like him. He is an all-rounder who can bat at any situation in the main 7 as per the group’s necessities. He could also step up under pressure, an area in which CSK seemed to struggle last season.