CSK skipper MS Dhoni nursing a knee injury: Details here
What's the story
Chennai Super Kings have added injury concerns in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season as skipper MS Dhoni is nursing a knee injury as per coach Stephen Fleming.
Dhoni's knee injury is hindering his running between the wickets. Fleming's comments came after CSK suffered a narrow defeat against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday at the Chepauk Stadium.
Here are further details.
Words
He (Dhoni) is nursing a knee injury, says Fleming
Fleming said Dhoni has a knee injury and it can be seen in some of his movements.
"He is nursing a knee injury, which you can see in some of his movement, which is hindering him somewhat," Fleming said after the game.
"But still what you saw today is a great player for us. His fitness has always been very professional."
Runs
Dhoni has been striking at 214.81 in IPL 2023
Despite his knee injury, Dhoni has been in sublime striking form this season.
On Wednesday, he smashed an unbeaten 32 off 17 balls.
Overall this season, Dhoni has hit 58 runs across three innings at a strike rate of 214.81, including six sixes and two fours.
Even at the nets, Dhoni has been busy with his assaults. He has also bulked up.
200 games
Dhoni played his 200th IPL game as CSK skipper
In what is turning out to be a blockbuster IPL season, Dhoni unlocked another achievement.
The legendary captain led the Yellow Army for the 200th time in the cash-rich league.
Dhoni has become the first player to lead a franchise in as many matches in the tournament.
He has led CSK to four IPL titles.
CSK vs RR
RR overcome CSK
RR were off to a flying start after CSK elected to field. Devdutt Padikkal and Buttler took RR to 57/1 in six overs.
While Buttler held one end, Jadeja took back-to-back wickets to perturb RR's innings. Shimron Hetmyer (30*) took RR to 175/8.
Devon Conway and Ajinkya Rahane powered CSK's chase.
Ravindra Jadeja and Dhoni struck at the death but CSK fell short (172/6).
Injuries
CSK's injury concerns in IPL 2023
Besides Dhoni's knee issues, pacer Sisanda Magala suffered a split webbing in the match versus RR.
Magala had to leave the field post his injury after bowling two overs.
He is set to be out for at least two weeks.
CSK are also without Deepak Chahar, who needs 2-3 weeks to return.
Earlier, pacer Mukesh Choudhary was ruled out for the entire season.