Defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a franchise with a history of incredible success in the Indian T20 League, are entering the 2024 season with a squad that is a perfect mix of smart buys and the retention of key players. This balanced approach has positioned them as formidable contenders once again to defend their title.
With the inclusion of Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, and Aravelly Avanish Rao in their ranks through the 2024 auction, CSK has not only infused fresh talent but also created a healthy competitive environment for securing places in the playing XI.
At FanCraze, we take a look at CSK’s probable playing XI for the 2024 edition:
Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad has become a mainstay for CSK at the opening slot, thanks to his elegant batting style and remarkable consistency. Winning the Orange Cap in 2021 was proof of his brilliance, and he has not looked back since. In the previous season, he amassed 590 runs across 16 games as he displayed his ability to provide CSK with solid starts. Gaikwad's role will be crucial in setting the stage for the middle and lower order.
Ajinkya Rahane
With Devon Conway ruled out till May, veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane is likely to open alongside Gaikwad. After a few seasons of underperformance, CSK's acquisition of Rahane last year paid off as he looked rejuvenated, scoring 326 runs in 14 matches at a blistering strike rate of 172.49. His technical soundness and calm presence at the top order will be key in tackling the new ball threat and maintaining the innings' momentum.
Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra has become a household name after his impressive performance in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India. Accumulating 578 runs across 10 matches and ranking as the tournament's fourth-highest run-scorer, he garnered significant attention, leading to CSK acquiring him at the auction. With Conway sidelined until May, Rachin is anticipated to take up the No. 3 spot. His proficiency in both batting and bowling enhances CSK's team dynamics. With a record of 605 runs and 41 wickets in 55 T20 matches, his versatile skill set is expected to be a key asset in the forthcoming season.
Daryl Mitchell/ Moeen Ali
Having been roped in at the 2024 auction, Daryl Mitchell is expected to play a central role in CSK's campaign. His outstanding performance in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 along with his familiarity with Indian pitches and dominance against spin, makes him a critical asset and a sure starter. Mitchell's all-round abilities enhance the team's balance, providing strength in both the batting and bowling departments.
Moeen Ali, who has been a consistent performer for CSK, offers flexibility with his ability to bowl and change the game's tempo with the bat. Mitchell is the primary choice, but Ali is a formidable replacement if needed.
Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube is known for his ability to alter the course of a game with his power hitting. Positioned in the late middle order, Dube can unleash devastating attacks on bowlers and turn the tide in CSK's favour. Additionally, his medium-pace bowling offers an extra option for the captain which makes him a versatile player for the team.
Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja's role in CSK cannot be overstated, with his contributions spanning across batting, bowling, and fielding. His knack for tightening the game in the middle overs and providing impetus towards the innings' end makes him a key player. Jadeja's all-round capabilities make him indispensable to the CSK team's strategy.
MS Dhoni (C & WK)
Captain MS Dhoni is the strategic mastermind and emotional core of CSK. His legendary finishing abilities and leadership qualities have steered CSK through many tight situations, with his composed nature and tactical brilliance being his hallmarks. The veteran skipper's presence on the field continues to inspire confidence in the team and fans alike.
Shardul Thakur/ Rajvardhan Hangargekar
Known for his ability to swing the ball, Thakur has consistently been a wicket-taker in the powerplay as well as in the middle overs. His knack for breaking crucial partnerships and providing timely breakthroughs makes him an asset. Additionally, Thakur is more than handy with the bat, capable of scoring quick runs down the order which makes him a sure starter in CSK’s playing XI.
Rajvardhan Hangargekar is another young talent in the CSK ranks, known for his fast bowling and hard-hitting abilities. Hangargekar's fast and aggressive bowling style adds a different dimension to CSK's pace attack, especially in the death overs where his ability to bowl tight lines and execute yorkers can be crucial. Moreover, Hangargekar's capability to hit the ball hard and far makes him a valuable asset down the order. While Hangargekar isn’t likely to start, he will be ready to grab any opportunity that comes his way.
Deepak Chahar
Deepak Chahar's role in exploiting the new ball will be critical for setting up the game for CSK. His mastery in swinging the ball and capturing early wickets can disrupt the opposition's top order, laying the groundwork for CSK's bowling strategy in the powerplay and beyond.
Maheesh Theekshana
The mystery spinner from Sri Lanka, Maheesh Theekshana is earmarked for a crucial role in controlling the middle overs with his varied deliveries. His economical bowling can choke the opposition, creating opportunities for breakthroughs and maintaining pressure throughout the innings. The 23-year-old is likely to be the first choice in the playing XI.
Mustafizur Rahman
Mustafizur Rahman, known for his impeccable skills in the death overs, brings a wealth of experience to the CSK squad and is likely to be in the playing XI in place of the injured Matheesha Pathirana. The Bangladesh left-arm pacer is adept at bowling yorkers and slower balls, making him a tough proposition for batsmen in the slog overs. Rahman's variations and ability to outthink the batsman have made him a proven match-winner in the shortest format of the game.
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