'It was just...', CSK Coach Fleming on Dhoni's Injury Scare
MS Dhoni had a slight niggle during the first game [AP Photos]
In the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 opener between Chennai Super King (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT), seasoned wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni, suffered an injury scare.
During the match, the former MS Dhoni was seen grimacing in pain after an awkward landing on his previously injured knee while attempting a dive to stop the ball. The sight of the legendary cricketer being injured in the first game sent shock waves across the cricketing community.
Addressing the same during the post-match press conference, CSK coach, Stephen Fleming, provided a major update on Dhoni's fitness and injury status.
The erstwhile cricketer clarified that the Indian veteran had been nursing a sore knee throughout the pre-season period, but what occurred during the match was simply cramps and not a re-injury of his knee.
“He was nursing a sore knee throughout the month of pre-season, but today it was just cramps, it wasn't the knee,” stated Fleming.
Fleming also acknowledged that, as a player, Dhoni may not be as quick and nimble as he was 15 years ago. However, he emphasized that the CSK skipper remains a great leader of the team and still has a vital role to play with the bat.
The coach expressed confidence in Dhoni's abilities and his value as a player on the field, despite his limitations. In Fleming's own words, "He knows his limitations, but he is a valuable player to have on the field. He is a legend."
With this update from Fleming, CSK fans can be reassured that their captain's injury is not as serious as initially feared. After a five-wicket loss in the tournament opener, the team will now shift its focus to their upcoming match against the Lucknow Super Giants, and Dhoni's leadership and contribution with the bat will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their quest for victory.
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