Raina says everyone wants to see Dhoni bat for five overs in IPL 2024, not just the last two

In a recent interview with JioCinema, former India batter Suresh Raina expressed his desire to see ex-Chennai Super Kings skipper M S Dhoni bat higher in the order in the upcoming IPL 2024 season, stating that the whole world wants to see the iconic wicketkeeper-batter bat longer instead of just in the last two overs. Dhoni has handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the tournament opener against Royal Bangalore.

Raina mentioned that this IPL will be significant for Dhoni as he will not be captaining the side this time, and he hopes CSK will maintain their championship mindset. He emphasized the importance of players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Daryl Mitchell setting the tone for the team. Raina also mentioned that RCB has the potential to beat CSK, especially with the psychological factor of Dhoni not being the captain.

Virat Kohli will be returning to competitive cricket after a two-month break, with Raina suggesting that Kohli should open the innings with Faf du Plessis. He highlighted the significance of Kohli’s form, especially with the upcoming T20 World Cup in slow wickets of West Indies. Raina also mentioned the motivation that Kohli will have after Smriti Mandhana’s team won the WPL trophy.

Former wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel added his insights, stating that Kohli’s intensity and track record against CSK in the IPL show his ability to perform on big stages. He mentioned the importance of Kohli’s strike rate in the context of the T20 World Cup and raised the question of whether Kohli will bat as an opener or at No. 3 for India in the World Cup. The opening match between CSK and RCB is scheduled to begin at 8 pm on Friday at M A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.