I don't think there was ever a lack of intent: Robin Uthappa on Dhoni's innings against PBKS

ANI April 9, 2025 192 views

Robin Uthappa has offered fascinating insights into MS Dhoni's current role with Chennai Super Kings. Despite limited playing time, Dhoni continues to be instrumental in shaping the team's future strategy. His recent performances, including a quick-fire 27 runs against Punjab Kings, demonstrate his ongoing commitment to the team. Uthappa believes Dhoni is deliberately empowering younger players while maintaining his competitive spirit.

"I don't think there was ever a lack of intent from MS Dhoni" - Robin Uthappa
New Delhi April 9: Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa shared his insights on MS Dhoni's innings against Punjab Kings (PBKS), suggesting that he is still actively involved in CSK's plans, even though he may not be playing as much.

Key Points

1

Dhoni strategically preparing younger players for CSK's future

2

Explosive 27-run innings against PBKS shows continued impact

3

Team focusing on long-term championship potential

4

Transitioning leadership while maintaining competitive edge

While speaking on Jio Hotstar, Uthappa said that Dhoni is passing on the responsibility to younger players, preparing them for the future and ensuring CSK remains a competitive team. While Uthappa acknowledged that Dhoni's batting skills are still valuable, he believed that the team focuses on building a strong foundation for future success.

"I don't think there was ever a lack of intent from MS Dhoni. Even outside the TATA IPL, I believe he has passed on responsibility to others and given them a clear understanding of what to expect in the coming years as CSK rebuilds into a championship-contending side. That transition is happening, and while we would love to see MS bat the way he is right now, perhaps a little higher up the order, I don't think the problem lies at the end." Jio Star expert Robin Uthappa said while speaking on Match Centre Live on JioHotstar.

Opener Priyansh Arya's maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) century helped hosts Punjab Kings (PBKS) score 219 runs and set up victory over five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who lost the encounter by 18 runs.

MS Dhoni walked to the crease at No. 5 with 25 balls remaining in the chase and 69 runs still required. Dhoni once again faced the challenge of rescuing a nearly impossible scenario. The 43-year-old seemed to rewind time with an explosive 27 off merely 12 balls, hitting three sixes and a four.

He got out on the first ball of the 20th over, hitting down the leg full toss straight to Chahal. CSK has lost four out of five matches in the ongoing IPL so far. They have not batted first in any of these matches.

After the Chepauk innings by Dhoni, in which he played an average knock of 30 in 26 balls against Delhi Capitals (DC), with just a four and six, not firing in death overs like he would have expected to, this inning was much more intentful by him.

Dhoni is the sixth-highest run-getter in the tournament's history, with 5,346 runs at an average of 39.31 and a strike rate of over 137, with 24 fifties and a best score of 84. In IPL 2025, Dhoni has made 103 runs in five innings at an average of 51.50 and a strike rate of over 153.73; his best score is 30.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Dhoni is just timeless! That 27 off 12 was vintage MSD. Even at 43, he's got that finishing power. CSK needs to figure out their top order though - can't keep relying on Dhoni to bail them out every time. �
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Priya M.
Uthappa makes a great point about Dhoni grooming the next generation. That's what makes him a true legend - thinking about CSK's future even while playing. The man's leadership is unmatched!
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Amit S.
Respectfully disagree with Uthappa here. While Dhoni's intent is there, CSK's management needs to be more strategic. Why keep your best finisher for the last 4 overs every match? He should come in at 5 or 6, not 7.
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Sanjana R.
That six over covers was pure magic! 😍 Dhoni might not be as consistent as before, but when he connects, it's still the most beautiful sight in cricket. Hope we get to see more of this version of MSD before he retires.
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Vikram J.
CSK's real problem isn't Dhoni - it's their bowling attack. Conceding 219 runs is unacceptable. Dhoni can't be expected to chase those totals every time with just 5 overs to bat.
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Neha P.
The way the crowd erupts when Dhoni walks out to bat... no other player gets that reaction. He's not just a cricketer, he's an emotion. Even in a losing cause, that 12-ball show was worth the ticket price!

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Tags:
MS Dhoni Robin Uthappa IPL 2024 Chennai Super Kings Cricket Strategy
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