AB de Villiers urges MSD to bat at No 6 or higher in the upcoming IPL
New Delhi: In a blunt assessment, former South Africa great AB de Villiers on Tuesday said MS Dhoni must bat no lower than number six in the upcoming IPL, asserting that turning up at eight or nine “does not do justice to his presence.”
Dhoni, 44, is set to represent Chennai Super Kings in the tournament starting March 28, but De Villiers questioned his recent role in the side.
“I don’t see a role for him batting at eight or nine and not really doing enough… If MS plays, I want him to put himself under more pressure and be the guy to handle those big moments,” De Villiers told JioHotstar.
He acknowledged Dhoni’s immense brand value but felt cricketing contribution must remain central. “There’s still a place for him, but he needs to bat higher, at least at six, maybe even at five or four at times,” he added.
On CSK’s transition, De Villiers backed Sanju Samson as a long-term successor, while Anil Kumble termed the move a “great fit”, citing leadership experience and regional connect.
Kumble also indicated Samson could step into a larger leadership role if required, even as Ruturaj Gaikwad continues
as captain. He added that while Dhoni’s legacy is permanent, “you have to move on at some point.”
