IPL 2023: "Don't make me run a lot," Dhoni confirms his batting position for CSK during the post-match presentation

Chennai Super Kings registered a convincing victory over the Delhi Capitals on Wednesday night to boost their chances for a play-offs qualification. CSK registered a 27-run win which was their seventh win in the season to strengthen its hold on the second spot in the IPL 2023 points table. Opting to bat, the Super Kings posted a competitive score of 167/8 on a slow surface and then restricted the visitors to 140/8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Read Also: CSK vs DC: Chennai Super Kings shattered the Playoff hopes for Delhi by registering a 27-run victory

The CSK middle-order made a significant contribution with captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni providing the side with a strong finish. Dhoni arrived at the crease with the side's score at 126/6 in the 17th over. The CSK skipper smashed 20 off just 9 balls, which included two sixes and a four.

Dhoni has played multiple brisk cameos for the Super Kings this season. He has faced 47 deliveries and scored 96 runs with a blistering strike rate of 204.26. Out of those, 72 have come from boundaries (three fours, 10 sixes).

IPL 2023: Dhoni in the Post-match Presentation

Many Cricket Pundits have urged the CSK captain to promote himself to the batting order. Dhoni during his post-match interview with Murali Kartik, finally opened up on why he chooses to bat in the lower order for the side despite his aggressive hitting form. Dhoni revealed that he is specifically practicing for the role of a finisher in the innings, and isn't inclined towards building partnerships in the middle.

"That's what my job is, I told them, 'this is what I'm supposed to do. Don't make me run a lot," Dhoni told Kartik in the post-match presentation ceremony, drawing an immense cheer from the crowd present at the stadium.

"It has been working. Others are doing their job, and I've told them that this is what I need to do. So, happy to contribute to whatever deliveries I'm getting. Accordingly, I'm practicing also. What I may get in the game is what I actually practice, so it helps me perform," the CSK captain further said.

CSK have two matches remaining in the season and will be aiming to maintain their position and potentially challenge Gujarat Titans for the top spot. The top-two teams will play the first qualifier - the winner of which ensures a direct entry into the final of the season.