AB de Villiers Calls for MS Dhoni to Bat Higher in CSK Lineup
Former South African batting maestro AB de Villiers has made a strong case for Chennai Super Kings legend MS Dhoni to bat higher in the batting order during the upcoming Indian Premier League season. De Villiers expressed concern that Dhoni's recent trend of coming in at positions eight or nine does not maximize his potential impact on the game.
De Villiers Questions Dhoni's Current Role
Speaking about the iconic wicketkeeper-batter's role in the CSK setup, de Villiers acknowledged the complexity of the situation. "It's very tricky and not straightforward," de Villiers stated. "Brands are built over years, and CSK have built this empire over many years with this MS Dhoni figure that's always been there. When you mention CSK, you immediately think of Dhoni."
The former Proteas captain elaborated on his perspective, suggesting that in recent seasons, Dhoni's primary role has been about maintaining the CSK brand's strength. "I feel that in the last few years, his role has purely been about keeping that brand as strong as possible. That's why I don't see a role for him batting at eight or nine and not really doing enough, like last season," de Villiers explained.
Specific Batting Position Recommendations
De Villiers was clear about where he believes the 44-year-old cricketer should be positioned in the batting lineup. "We know he can be impactful with the bat, but if he's batting that low and not captaining, it feels like he's almost just making up for a spot for the wrong reasons. There's still a place for him, but he needs to bat higher, at least at six, maybe even at five or four at times."
The cricket analyst went even further, suggesting that Dhoni should consider stepping aside if he's going to bat below number six. "My only issue is where MS fits in and if he's not going to have that big impact batting at 4, 5, 6 sometimes, then rather be out of the squad," de Villiers asserted.
Succession Planning and Future Considerations
De Villiers pointed to specific players who could potentially take over Dhoni's role in the team. "I do feel Rutaraj and Sanju are the perfect players to take over from MS (Dhoni)," he said, referring to CSK's acquisition of Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
The former international star suggested an alternative role for Dhoni if he doesn't bat in the middle order. "Let someone else, that can maybe bowl and bat and have a bigger impact in the game, to come in there and then MS can almost sit on the side as a mentor and still guide the guys."
Praise for Successor and Final Thoughts
De Villiers expressed confidence in Sanju Samson's ability to lead CSK forward. "It's a tricky situation, but Sanju Samson is the right guy to take over, and credit to Dhoni because he's hung around, waiting for the right person to come."
The cricket commentator concluded with a challenge to the CSK veteran. "If MS plays, I want him to put himself under more pressure and be the guy to handle those big moments."
Dhoni, who will be 44 when the IPL season begins on March 28, continues to be one of the most recognizable figures in world cricket and a central pillar of the Chennai Super Kings franchise that has dominated the tournament with multiple championship victories.
