Chennai Super Kings (CSK) slipped only in their second game after making a winning start to IPL 2020 beating Mumbai Indians. Many opined that MS Dhoni deep down pushed Chennai away from the game against Rajasthan Royals. Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Dhoni revealed why he batted deep down in the order.

Batting first, Sanju Samson’s blistering knock capped well Jofra Archer’s little cameo in the death overs powered Rajasthan Royals to 216 for 7. Losing debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal early, Samson joined hands with skipper Steve Smith to completely murder the Chennai bowlers.

Chennai slips in their 2nd game

Also read: Sakshi Dhoni Slams Umpiring Standards in IPL After Another Blunder During CSK vs RR

Sanju Samson took off in the 5th over, taking on Sam Curran, but reserved his best against spin. Jadeja went for plenty and Piyush Chawla simply went the distance. His knock of 74 runs off just 32 deliveries included nine towering sixes. Although he got out, Smith scored a fine fifty before Jofra Archer ran a rampage.

Chasing a heavy total, Chennai Super Kings didn’t get off to a flier and ever since, they didn’t look on course. Rajasthan Royals continued to peg back from one end while Faf du Plessis carried on with his valiant effort from the other. He chipped in with 72 runs from 34 deliveries while other’s mere came and went back.

MS Dhoni reveals why he batted down

Meanwhile, speculations continued to rife as MS Dhoni pushed himself down in the batting order. He promoted Sam Curran and Kedar Jadhav ahead of himself when the team needed him the most with his finishing abilities. Speaking of the same, Dhoni stressed that he has been out of action for long and the quarantine has also not done any good.

The 39-year-old also said that he wanted to try different things but indicated that he bat up if needed.

“I haven’t batted for a long time. 14-day quarantine doesn’t help (why he isn’t batting higher). Also wanted to try different things, give opportunities to Sam. Have the opportunity to try different things. If it doesn’t work, you can always go back to your strengths,” Dhoni said at the end of the game. 

Meanwhile, with three sixes off the last over, can we see old MS Dhoni taking guard once again?