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McClenaghan Urges CSK to Use Fit Dhoni as Impact Player in Chases

Former New Zealand cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan has proposed that Chennai Super Kings should utilize MS Dhoni as an Impact Player if he is fit, particularly during run chases. He argues this role would let Dhoni focus on powerful hitting without the physical demand of extensive running between the wickets. This strategy is seen as a way to reintegrate the veteran and bolster the team's lower-middle-order batting. CSK's season has been challenging, with only one victory in their first four matches of IPL 2026.

Key Points: MS Dhoni as Impact Player? McClenaghan's CSK Strategy for IPL 2026

  • Dhoni recovering from calf strain
  • Expert suggests Impact Player role for chases
  • Allows aggressive batting without running
  • Aim to strengthen CSK's lower middle order
  • CSK has won only 1 of 4 matches in IPL 2026
2 min read

"If MS Dhoni is fit, CSK should bring him in as Impact Player:" Mitchell McClenaghan ahead of CSK vs KKR

Mitchell McClenaghan suggests CSK use a fit MS Dhoni as an Impact Sub, especially in chases, to boost their lower order without heavy running.

"If MS Dhoni is fit, then CSK should bring him in as the Impact Player. - Mitchell McClenaghan"

Mumbai, April 14

Former New Zealand cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan suggested the Chennai Super Kings should use veteran wicket-keeper batter MS Dhoni as an Impact Sub, especially if the team is chasing in the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Dhoni, who has not featured in four of CSK's IPL 2026 matches so far due to a calf strain. While the legendary cricketer had a light stint in the nets ahead of CSK's match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, according to ESPNcricinfo, he is unlikely to play in the match. Notably, he only faced throwdowns.

Speaking on Star Sports, JioStar expert Mitchell McClenaghan said that if MS Dhoni is fit to play, Chennai Super Kings should use him as an Impact Player, especially during chases. He highlighted that this role would allow Dhoni to focus on quick, aggressive scoring without much running, strengthening the lower middle order and helping him regain rhythm.

"If MS Dhoni is fit, then CSK should bring him in as the Impact Player. If the team management feels they need a short burst of runs from him, especially when they are chasing, then bringing him in as the Impact Sub will allow them to make the best use of his batting abilities. Playing as an Impact Player will mean he may not have to do a lot of running. He can just come in, smack the ball into the stands and do his job of finishing in style. His aggressive stroke-making ability will come in handy for Chennai when they are chasing big scores," Mitchell McClenaghan said.

"I think that is a good way to get Dhoni back into the groove. His presence will really give a lot of strength to the lower middle order of CSK," McClenaghan added.

CSK have only managed to win one match out of their four matches so far in the IPL 2026. After facing three consecutive defeats, CSK ended their losing run against the Delhi Capitals by handing them a 23-run defeat.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting tactical suggestion from McClenaghan. It makes sense from a pure cricketing perspective to manage his workload and maximize his explosive batting. Hope the CSK think tank is listening.
A
Ananya R
Respectfully, I disagree. Dhoni is not just a "burst of runs." His wicket-keeping and captaincy brain from behind the stumps are invaluable. Using him only as a batter is underutilizing a legend. He should play fully fit or not at all.
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Vikram M
The man is 44+ and coming back from injury. Why risk a full game? This Impact Player rule was made for situations like this. Let him do what he does best - finish the game in the last few overs. Perfect plan!
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Karthik V
CSK's lower order looks shaky without him. Even if he plays 10 balls, he can get 30 runs. That's the difference between 160 and 190. They need to start winning, and Thala's cameo might be the key.
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Priya S
As a CSK fan from Chennai, my heart says play him, but my mind says be careful. His long-term fitness is more important. If the Impact Player role lets him contribute without strain, then it's a win-win. 💛

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