Dhoni will olay only if fully fit: coach Simons

Chennai, May 23:

Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons said Mahendra Singh Dhoni alone will decide on his comeback, stressing that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter would only return if he feels fully fit and ready to contribute to the team.

Dhoni, 44, couldn’t play a single game in this edition due to a leg injury but Simons said he impressed in the nets with his clean striking.

“Are you seriously asking me that question? We always are,” Simons said when asked if CSK are hopeful of Dhoni’s availability next year.

“I mean, honestly, he has hit the ball so well. He obviously had a leg injury, which made it very difficult for him to run, so that’s why he couldn’t play.“But in terms of hitting the ball in the nets, he’s hitting it as well as I’ve ever seen him hit it. But I keep saying this, only MS will know, and MS will make the decision about when he’s ready and when he’s right.”

The former South Africa all-rounder said Dhoni would always prioritise the team’s interest over personal milestones.