Dhoni will play, Ben should definitely be fit for the April 30 game: CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan

Amid speculations of MS Dhoni missing out on Chennai Super Kings' upcoming clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore, CSK CEO Kashi Vishwanathan has opened up on the skipper's fitness, clearing all clouds of uncertainty hovering around Dhoni's injury. Such speculations were first drawn up after Dhoni was seen in trouble during CSK's second home match of the IPL 2023 against Rajasthan Royals. 

While Dhoni brought out an incredible inning from the vault to almost chase down the 176-run target, he was also recorded limping during his innings, thus raising concerns among fans and experts alike. Meanwhile, CSK's dependable all-round prospect Ben Stokes, too, has been warming the bench for the past couple of games on medical grounds. Stokes had recently recovered from a knee injury and had already clarified that he won't be rushing himself in the IPL as he wanted to guard himself for the Ashes.

However, recently CSK CEO Kashi Viswanathan has revealed the ground reality, putting much of the confusion to rest. Speaking on Dhoni's injury, Vishwanathan confirmed at the outset that Dhoni was indeed having a problem with his knee but also mentioned that the skipper hadn't mentioned anything regarding his unavailability. 

"It is true that he has an injury to his knee but he has not told us otherwise," said Viswanathan as reported by Cricbuz.

He further affirmed in positive regarding Dhoni playing the next match. "He will play," confirmed Viswanathan.

Moreover, regarding Stokes, Viswanathan told that he might take a few more matches before taking the field in yellow. He mentioned that Stokes was expected to be fit enough to play on April 30 against Punjab Kings. 

"Ben is doing well, he is recovering fast, and should definitely be free for the April 30 game," said Viswanathan. "He could even be ready earlier, maybe by the April 27 game," he further added.

'His fitness has always been very professional' - coach Stephen Fleming opens up on MS Dhoni's injury

Chennai's celebrated coach Stephen Fleming too spoke on MS Dhoni's fitness and his availability for the next game against RCB. Fleming mentioned that although currently struggling with a knee injury, Dhoni had great standards of fitness in line with professional requirements. He further said that Dhoni joins the practice sessions a month before the IPL starts and has had amazing records as a player.

"He is nursing a knee injury, which you can see in some of his movements. It's hindering him somewhat. His fitness has always been very professional. He comes a month before the tournament starts. He's a great player. We have never doubted him. He's just amazing," Fleming said.

Notably, CSK will take on RCB on April 17 at the latter's home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.