Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin shares strong opinion on the legend ms dhoniPotential role as impact player in Indian Premier League 2026. Before the season, there was speculation that Dhoni could be used in the role of an impact player, but the off-spinner disagreed with the idea.
Ashwin said that the wicketkeeper-batsman has an important role on the field, especially in guiding the bowlers and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. He also said that the team has strengthened its batting lineup, allowing Dhoni to bat lower in the order.
Ashwin said in 'Ash Ki Baat', “I don't agree that he has to remain in the impact list. If he is in the team, he has to play. If he doesn't want to, he shouldn't play the whole season. I don't agree with him being an impact player.”
“I think Dhoni will have an important role in supporting this new bowling line-up on the field. I was there last year too. MS wants him to play the last three overs. But the top order did not score runs at times and he had to move up. This time, he has added strength to the top order to avoid that. Maybe this time, out of 14 matches, he will get a chance to bat at the top only in 3-4 matches, or else he will come only at the end. His biggest role Keeping will be in setting fielding, giving shoulder to Ruturaj,” he said.
Ashwin said that if Dhoni is a part of the team then he should play without any doubt. He said that if the legendary cricketer no longer had the desire to compete, he would have retired already. Ashwin also revealed that he had watched some of CSK's practice sessions where Sanju Samson was seen fielding, indirectly hinting that Dhoni could take over the wicketkeeping duties.
“If you are making a CSK XI and Dhoni is in the team, the debate ends there. He has to be in the XI. If he doesn't want to play, he will retire. He has 100% confidence that he can play. He has been practicing for the last three months. He is giving the message that I want to play, think whatever you want. If he wants to play, it is not possible that you tell him that you cannot play. He is your Not a number six batsman, I would agree, but he can play that dual role. He can be the on-field compass for Ruturaj,” Ashwin said.
“I went to watch practice one day and Samson was fielding. So, thinking all this, I think MS will keep the wicket and probably bat at number seven. If you want to send him at the top, send Dhoni in the powerplay. But again, it completely depends on him. He may not play the middle overs, but he can definitely give you the finishing touch. Even last year I watched him closely, he still hits those big shots. Is capable of. Maybe he's not the same player, but he's definitely trying.” He added.
Get every cricket update! Follow us: :
Leave a Reply