May 6, 2024: MS Dhoni etched his name in the history books, becoming the first player to secure 150 catches in the IPL. However, amidst the jubilation of this milestone, controversy brewed as Dhoni’s batting position during the match came under scrutiny, drawing sharp criticism from former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh.
During the encounter in Dharamsala, Dhoni, the former captain of CSK, made his entrance to the crease at the unfamiliar number 9 position, only to be dismissed for a golden duck. This decision raised eyebrows, especially given his reputation as a finisher and strategist in the game.
Harbhajan Singh, a former teammate of Dhoni and a seasoned campaigner himself, didn’t mince his words as he expressed his discontent with Dhoni’s batting order in an interview with Star Sports. Singh questioned the decision, stating, “MS Dhoni shouldn’t play if he wants to bat at number 9. Including a fast bowler other than him in the XI is better. He is the decision-maker and has disappointed his team by not coming out to bat.”
Harbhajan Singh further highlighted his disappointment by pointing out the batting order sequence, emphasizing that even tailenders like Shardul Thakur were sent in ahead of MS Dhoni. He stressed, “Shardul Thakur came ahead of him. He can never hit shots like Dhoni. I don’t understand why Dhoni made this mistake.”
The former off-spinner didn’t stop there, expressing his resolve to speak out against what he perceived as a strategic error. “CSK needed quick runs, and Dhoni did that in the previous games. Shockingly, he stayed back in the important contest against the Punjab Kings. Even if CSK win today, I will still call out Dhoni.”
MS Dhoni Reaches a new wicket keeping milestone
However, Singh’s critique didn’t sit well with the legions of Dhoni fans, who swiftly came to the defense of their beloved ‘Thala’ on social media platforms. One fan fervently stated, “He should stop putting eyes in CSK’s matters…If he hates him then pls don’t speak about him. Dhoni knows about CSK very well then others.”
Another fan echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing, “bhai you are not paying him money so don’t worry if he is coming at 9 or even at 11 franchise wants him they are paying and they are winning so don’t worry about that.”
The debate surrounding MS Dhoni‘s batting position continues to divide opinions among cricket enthusiasts, with many eagerly awaiting his next move in the upcoming matches of the IPL.
