"Come On Mate Bat For Four Overs": Irfan Pathan Inquires About MS Dhoni's Batting Position in IPL 2024

Former Indian All-Rounder Irfan Pathan was left surprised at Chennai Super Kings(CSK) sent MS Dhoni as late as number 9, despite being in solid form in the recent games.

During the day fixture against the Punjab Kings at Dharamshala, Pathan observed MS Dhoni entering as low as at Number 9 position with just 8 legal deliveries left to be bowled, this decision left Irfan perplexed.

"I know he is 42 but he is in solid form. He should be taking the responsibility of batting up the order, he should bat atleast four to five overs". Pathan Quipped on Star Sports.

Pathan stressed on the need for Dhoni to assume a better batting position, particularly earlier in the innings rather than being confined to bat lower down the order and solely play as a finisher.

"He is batting in the last over or last 2 overs that doesn't serve the purpose for CSK for a long term". Pathan remarked

Dhoni was dismissed for a golden duck by Harshal Patel which further underscored the questionable decision-making regarding his batting position. Pathan highlighted the importance of Dhoni's contributions especially in crunch game scenarios urging CSK management to rethink their strategies and allot a particular place for Dhoni.

Acknowledging Dhoni's impacts in the previous games, Pathan stressed the necessity for a proactive approach to utilize the services of MS Dhoni.

"When the team needed him you can't send Shardul Thakur ahead of yourself, they need to work out something someone has to tell Dhoni. 'Come on mate you have to bat four overs'