MS Dhoni Plays Through Pain with Muscle Tear, CSK Decimated by Injuries

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni's limited mobility on the field is not a matter of choice but a necessity due to a muscle tear in his leg, according to team sources. Despite the injury, Dhoni has been playing through pain and taking medication to minimize his running.

The injury occurred early in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, and if second wicketkeeper Devon Conway had been available, Dhoni might have considered resting. However, with CSK facing a string of injuries, Dhoni has no choice but to play.

"We are virtually playing with our 'B' team. Those who are criticizing Dhoni don't know the sacrifice that he is doing for this team," said a source close to the team.

Dhoni's injury has severely restricted his movements on the field. During practice, he avoids running and focuses on hitting the ball out of the park. The limited running he does during matches aggravates the injury, but he refuses to take a break.

Despite his physical limitations, Dhoni has been a guiding light for new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. While Gaikwad's captaincy is still a work in progress, Dhoni believes he has the potential to lead the team beyond the playoffs.

In another setback for CSK, paceman Deepak Chahar is unlikely to return from a leg injury suffered in the team's loss to Punjab Kings last week.

Tags: #MSDhoni, #CSK, #Injury, #MuscleTear, #IPL