IPL 2019: Is MS Dhoni risking an injury?
What's the story
Defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been in a flawless form so far in IPL 2019.
Moreover, skipper MS Dhoni has been winning the matches for them, which makes things even sweeter for the franchise.
However, Dhoni has been pushing and risking himself too far in order to win, this term.
Will this impact his World Cup performance? We analyze here.
Injury concerns
Dhoni playing through back injury
It was reported a few days back that Dhoni is nursing a back injury.
Following the win over Sunrisers Hyderabad, Dhoni said that he would rest if it was necessary.
Notably, the match against Mumbai Indians did see Dhoni sit out.
His side succumbed to a big defeat. Even though, CSK have virtually qualified for the play-offs, they are fighting for the top spots.
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Not easy to make Dhoni rest
Mike Hussey said, "I think what I know about him is that he doesn't want to miss any matches. He loves playing for CSK, this place is very close to his heart and he wants to play and do well and see the team succeed."
Past encounter
Dhoni has previously played with a back injury
Dhoni said that this is not the first time he is playing with a back injury and that he has done it in the past, even during the international matches.
He also said that the back niggle he had at the start of IPL is not there anymore.
However, considering the workload of the cash-rich league, injuries can flare up in no time.
Momentum
Dhoni does not want to lose momentum
As far as resting Dhoni is concerned, it is believed that he does not want to consider it owing to the fact that it could impact his form.
Dhoni wants to keep the momentum going so that his team does not stumble while playing a top side during the play-offs.
Further, a couple of losses before the play-offs too could hamper CSK's morale.
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It's not just about Dhoni, but all players, says Hussey
"It is important that we are smart about it and get the management of the players right. There is a big focus on rest and recovery and our physio Tommy Simsek is working extremely hard," said Hussey.
IPL form
Dhoni has been in lethal form in IPL 2019
Looking into Dhoni's form this season, while he did start out slow, he has picked up the pace. Further, he has been brutal of late.
As of now, he has scored 314 runs in just seven innings at a mammoth average of 104.66 and a strike-rate of 137.11, including three half-centuries.
Also, he has the fourth-most dismissals (9) this season as wicket-keeper.
Author's take
Should Dhoni rest ahead of World Cup?
With the World Cup just over a month away, it would be ideal for Dhoni not to risk himself by playing with a back injury.
While IPL title defense is important for him, the World Cup is even a bigger dream.
The author feels that Dhoni should continue resting unless he is fit to continue as he should not risk injuring himself.