MS Dhoni unlikely to play IPL opener due to injury

IPL 2023: Chennai Super Kings are likely to take the field against Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League opener without Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The Chennai skipper has been struggling with a niggle in his left knee. It is understood that he is still feeling some discomfort and doesn’t want to push too much as the team is short on wicketkeeping options.
In case, Dhoni is not available for Friday’s match, it would be interesting to see who captains the side. Ben Stokes, seen as a successor, is nursing a niggle himself and CSK could be looking at either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead the team.
Although Dhoni came for the practice session on the eve of the match at the Narendra Modi Stadium, he didn’t bat in the nets on Thursday. He was involved in a long discussion with Gujarat Titans mentor Gary Kirsten, with whom he won the 2011 50-over World Cup.
According to those in the know, a call on Dhoni’s availability is expected to be taken only on Friday, but chances of his inclusion remain bleak. With no regular wicketkeeper in the mix, Chennai would be looking at Devon Conway to take the gloves and in case the Kiwi opener doesn’t start the game, one of Gaikwad or Ambati Rayudu will keep wicket.
With regards to Dhoni, it is understood that the 41-year-old has been facing issues with his left knee over the last few days. During the intra-squad practice match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday, he was initially hesitant to come to bat, and was seen seated with a knee cap.
Though he came out to bat eventually, he was struggling to run, and was seen limping every time he pushed for a two. There were instances when he even paused mid-way, before limping to the crease. And right through that evening, he didn’t keep wicket as well.
Chennai believe that with a few days’ rest, Dhoni would be able to take the field, especially for their first home match against Lucknow Supergiants on Monday. However, in case the niggle worsens, Chennai would be forced to change their combination, especially overseas imports with an eye on a reliable wicketkeeper.
(With inputs from Venkata Krishna B)