On Tuesday, former West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle came to the defense of MS Dhoni, who has been facing backlash for his new position in the Chennai Super Kings lineup after batting at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Gayle issued a strong message to Dhoni's detractors, encouraging the legendary Indian player to continue his IPL career despite the increasing calls for him to retire.

Dhoni has been under fire since he batted at No. 9 for CSK last Friday at Chepauk, where he impressively scored 30 runs off just 16 balls. Although CSK head coach Stephen Fleming explained that the uncertainty around Dhoni's batting order was due to his ongoing knee injury, which required surgery in 2023, this reasoning hasn't satisfied some fans and analysts who believe it's time for Chennai to move on from the wicketkeeper-batter.

In an interview with Insidesport, Gayle cautioned critics to think carefully about their comments and highlighted Dhoni's unparalleled contributions to CSK and the IPL.

"Dhoni adds immense value to the IPL. We want to see him around for as long as possible; we shouldn't be pushing him out. When you start hearing negative comments, it sends the wrong message to such an incredible player and person. We shouldn't be sending that kind of message to someone like Dhoni, who means so much to the IPL," he stated.

Addressing the criticism regarding Dhoni's batting order, Gayle pointed out his exceptional wicketkeeping skills and mentioned that he wouldn't mind if Dhoni batted at No. 11.

"His wicketkeeping remains top-notch, and he’s still very sharp. It’s all about how he contributes to the team and how they utilize him. Everyone wants to see Dhoni play, so for me, it doesn’t matter where he bats, even if it’s at No. 11, as long as fans get to see him as part of CSK and the IPL," Gayle concluded.

If Dhoni steps away from the IPL...

Gayle cautioned that Dhoni's retirement from the league could lead to a decline in the IPL's overall value, not just for the Chennai Super Kings.

"He’s won the championship multiple times, and if he steps away from the IPL, there will definitely be some impact. His contributions to the franchise are remarkable. Wherever CSK plays in India, it’s all about the Whistle Podu. That’s the influence he has, and that’s what he adds to the IPL," the former RCB player remarked.

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