Wasting Dhoni’s Firepower! Watson Urges CSK To Change Batting Order

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson expressed frustration over Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) tactics after their 50-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Friday, questioning why MS Dhoni continues to bat so low in the order. Chasing 197, CSK faltered, with Dhoni entering at No. 9—below Ravichandran Ashwin—and blasting an unbeaten 30 off 16 balls, a late flourish that couldn’t salvage the game.

Watson, a JioStar expert, said, “This is what CSK fans live for—30 off 16 from Dhoni. I’d have loved to see him higher up, ahead of Ashwin. He could’ve played like this for another 15 balls.” Noting Dhoni’s consistent form over recent seasons, he added, “He’s still batting beautifully. Promoting him would showcase his full skill set.” The 43-year-old’s cameo, though crowd-pleasing, came when the match was nearly lost.

The CSK batting order baffled Watson further. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, typically an opener, batted at No. 3 and fell for a four-ball duck, while Rahul Tripathi opened instead. “Ruturaj’s a quality opener—why move him? His uncharacteristic shot under pressure showed the strain,” Watson remarked. He also criticized sending Deepak Hooda and Sam Curran at Nos. 4 and 5, respectively, suggesting Curran fits better at No. 7. “CSK’s combinations are off—they risk being exposed if this persists,” he warned.

Watson and Aakash Chopra praised Dhoni’s wicket-keeping sharpness, with lightning-fast stumpings at 43. “His hands are the fastest—moving only toward the stumps, defying fielding norms,” Chopra said. Watson agreed, “He’s as prepared as ever. Sending him earlier could’ve given CSK a real shot.” With a 1-1 record, CSK face Rajasthan Royals next on Sunday in Guwahati, where lineup tweaks could prove pivotal.