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MS Dhoni's Ex-CSK Teammate Offers Awkward 'Solution' To End Batting Struggles

Soumyajit Dutta

MS Dhoni [Source: @DHONIsm/X]MS Dhoni [Source: @DHONIsm/X]

While many critics and fans are questioning MS Dhoni's intent with the bat, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Robin Uthappa has urged the franchise to promote the star to the number three batting position to counter his struggles in IPL 2025. 

MS Dhoni, who has faced criticism for slow-paced knocks and his lower-order role, has seen even loyal fans question his impact amid CSK’s inconsistent season.

Robin Uthappa Makes Strange Comment On Dhoni's Batting Order

In a recent podcast with Jarrod Kimber, Uthappa acknowledged Dhoni’s batting pedigree but highlighted his tendency to take time to settle. 

“That’s how he’s played cricket his entire life. Is he going to change it at the fag end of his career, is it worth it? No. But for it to be conducive for him and for CSK, the solution is to bat at number three,” Uthappa said.

The former India batter argued that MS Dhoni’s traditional approach of “getting his eye in” clashes with modern T20 demands, where batters are expected to “implode or explode” without middle-ground. Uthappa believes batting higher up would benefit both Dhoni and CSK’s youngsters. 

“With Thala at number three and youngsters to follow, it could be lessons for the latter that they may never learn in IPL,” he added.

Uthappa also suggested that even if Dhoni plays 35-40 balls and needs rest afterward, CSK could deploy Devon Conway as a substitute wicketkeeper. 

“Irrespective of what situation he comes in, he takes time to get off the blocks. And that is so different from how cricket is played at the moment,” Uthappa noted.

Dhoni, in four IPL 2025 matches, has scored 0*, 30 (16), 16 (11), and 30 (26). His 26-ball 30 against Delhi Capitals marked his longest stay at the crease this season. 

Will Dhoni Be Effective At 3?

Notably, Robin Uthappa's suggestion stands at the borderline of being bizarre as MS Dhoni’s performances at No. 3 and No. 5 in the batting order reveal a stark contrast in effectiveness. At No. 3, he has played 8 innings, remaining not out twice, scoring 196 runs at an average of 32.67 and a strike rate of 124.84.

Meanwhile, his numbers at No. 5 are far more impactful—across 73 innings, he has remained unbeaten 32 times, scoring 1955 runs at a remarkable average of 47.68 and a strike rate of 144.49.

Nevertheless, the debate over Dhoni’s role intensifies as CSK, with just one win in four games, seeks momentum. Fans, once unwavering in their support, have begun questioning if nostalgia is overshadowing practicality for the five-time champions.