There are reports that MS Dhoni, the former captain of the Chennai Super Kings, may lighten his bat for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). In order to get match-fit before the season, Dhoni, who has been kept by CSK as an uncapped player this year, has been training in Ranchi. As usual, the renowned batsman-wicketkeeper is anticipated to be present at CSK's pre-IPL training camp this year.
According to a New Indian Express report that cited sources, Dhoni, who typically uses a bat that weighs between 1250 and 1300 grams, is anticipated to decrease it by at least 10 to 20 grams. In his heyday, Dhoni would play with one of the heaviest bats in the cricketing world.
Dhoni to reduce bats' weights
"Four bats have been delivered to Dhoni recently by Sanspareils Greenlands Pvt. Ltd., the cricket equipment company from Meerut. Each bat weighs around 1230 grams with the same shape as before," a source in the know said.
It is not anticipated that the Chennai Super Kings' camp at the MA Chidambaram Stadium will begin operations prior to March 10. The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has made it clear that the Chennai stadium cannot be used before to March 9, according to a source in the CSK management.
"The schedule of training has not been finalised yet. Anyway, the MA Chidambaram Stadium cannot be used for training purposes till March 9 as the BCCI has given strict instructions to maintain the venue in optimal conditions," a source from CSK management said.
Currently, Dhoni is training in Ranchi. He has been honing his skills by using the bowling machine. Although he played the entire 2024 season, the wicketkeeper-batter was primarily employed at No. 8 well down the order. Dhoni had a number of memorable performances, including a flurry of sixes in the match's last two overs.
"He used to train at the indoor facility. As there was no team camping here at the venue at that time, he was training with the bowling machine. He also played a friendly tennis match on the opening day of a tournament played here," a Jharkhand State Cricket Association official said.
