IPL 2020: Irfan Pathan feels MS Dhoni should bat at least 10 overs in the middle

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a shaky start so far in their IPL 2020 campaign. The MS Dhoni-led side, after defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians in the tournament opener, suffered two defeats against Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals respectively.

The three-time IPL champions failed to hunt down the total against RR and DC, resulting in their slump to the bottom of the points table. Skipper Dhoni’s intent and demotion down the batting order was also questioned post CSK’s poor outings.

Former India all-rounder, reacting to CSK’s unimpressive journey so far, has opined that skipper Dhoni should bat for at least 10 overs in upcoming matches of the franchise. According to Irfan, the Chennai side also needs to include an additional bowler in their Playing XI.

For the first time, CSK is not settled: Irfan Pathan

Irfan and Sanjay Bangar were involved in a discussion on CSK’s problems this season. On being asked about the side’s conundrums in the UAE, Irfan said that that CSK is looking unsettled for the first time in IPL history.

“For the first time, it is looking that the Chennai Super Kings team is not settled. They had problems before the start of the IPL, Suresh Raina went back and they have not taken a replacement for him till now,” said Irfan on Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected.

Irfan added that instead of searching for a finisher, Dhoni himself should bat for at least 10 overs in the middle. “The teams which have been playing with an additional bowler in the IPL are looking stronger. More than a finisher, MS Dhoni is himself such a great finisher.

He needs to ensure that he plays at least 10 overs and Chennai Super Kings must field an extra bowler. Then the rest of the things will be set,” added Irfan, who was also a part of the CSK contingent in 2015.

Irfan further pointed out that Suresh Raina’s withdrawal from the tournament has made the side unbalanced. Amid Raina’s truancy, CSK have resorted to playing with just five bowlers in order to address their batting concerns.

“If Suresh Raina had been batting at No.3, they could have played an extra bowler. Currently, they have only 5 bowlers. Kedar Jadhav not being bowled by MS Dhoni is also a cause of concern,” said Irfan.