MS Dhoni understands the situations very well, knows how to rotate bowlers: Virender Sehwag

As we head towards the business end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) seem to have lost the track a bit. After winning nine of their 11 games, the MS Dhoni-led side suffered two consecutive defeats and these aren’t great signs for them ahead of the playoffs. CSK’s assignment was against Delhi Capitals where they suffered a three-wicket defeat.

After posting a paltry 136/5 while batting first in Dubai, CSK bowlers put up a good fight as the game advanced to the very last over. However, Rishabh Pant’s men somehow managed to cross the line with a couple of deliveries to spare. Although CSK fans would have been disappointed with the loss, former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag was impressed by the way Dhoni used his bowlers.

With Delhi Capitals possessing a daunting batting line-up, many didn’t back CSK bowlers to make a fightback. However, the likes of Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja bowled brilliantly and made DC’s way difficult. Speaking on the matter, Sehwag said Dhoni has a great understanding of the game which allows him to pick bowlers as per situations.

MS Dhoni calculates how to use bowlers in advance: Virender Sehwag

“MS Dhoni understands the situations very well. Which bowler to use in which situation, how to rotate bowlers, he knows very well. As he’s an experienced captain, he calculates how to use bowlers in advance. While he does the calculation work brilliantly, bowlers have the onus to execute his plans. Like, he asked (Dwayne) Bravo to bowl in a particular area to control the flow of runs. So, this is a special thing about MS Dhoni,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.

Meanwhile, this defeat meant DC toppled CSK at the top of the team standings. Although the Men in Yellow have already qualified for the playoffs, their remaining fixture is more than just practice opportunities. Teams finishing in the top two will have an additional chance to make a place in the final encounter.

Hence, CSK must win their last league-stage game against Punjab Kings (PBKS) to seal the spot. Besides CSK and DC, Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore are also in contention to finish among the top two.