CSK Likely to Use MS Dhoni as Impact Player in IPL 2023 Opener

image-lfwcuuttMS Dhoni will lead CSK in IPL 2023 (Source: Twitter)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni can be brought in as an Impact Player in the opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. Reportedly, Dhoni can be picked as CSK's 12th man for the game versus Gujarat Titans (GT) today as a knee niggle is troubling the wicketkeeper-batter.

"Dhoni is likely to play in the playing XI, if he fully recovers from knee trouble, but if not then CSK could use him as impact player," stated a report published by InsideSports.

In case Chennai bowl first, there is a possibility that Dhoni will still be seen in the playing XI as he may still want to lead the side on the field. For this to happen, CSK would use the newly-introduced Impact Player that comes into effect in IPL 2023.

For the unversed, there have been concerns over Dhoni's fitness. He was seen wearing a knee cap in the practice sessions and rumours surfaced about his participation in the season opener on the eve of the match.

However, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan denied such reports, informing that the 41-year-old is all set to play against Gujarat.

The reported article also adds that England's Ben Stokes will be slotted at number three by CSK with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway retaining the opening positions.