The most eagerly awaited comeback for the IPL this year was that of the Chennai Super Kings team. The yellow jersey is back in the IPL after completing the two-year suspension imposed due to the charges of corruption. Chennai boasts one of the greatest fan bases which is extremely devoted to its beloved team. Their joy knew no bounds when MS Dhoni’s return at the helm of CSK was confirmed.
Full Squad:
MS Dhoni (C), Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Billings, Faf du Plessis, Harbhajan Singh, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, Kedar Jadhav, Ambati Rayudu, Imran Tahir, Shardul Thakur, Jagadeesan Narayan, Karn Sharma, Deepak Chahar, Asif K M, Lungisani Ngidi, Dhruv Shorey, Murali Vijay, Mark Wood, Kanishk Seth, Kshitiz Sharma, Monu Singh, Chaitanya Bishnoi
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Indian Contingent:
The triumvirate of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, and Ravindra Jadeja will have to play spectacular cricket like they have for the past few years if CSK is to claim the lost glory. All three have a point to prove as they have been overlooked and underestimated in recent times.
Much onus relies on the Indian fast bowling department also as there is no one who has lots of experience in either IPL or T20Is. Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar will have their task cut-off. The spin department is much more solid with Harbhajan Singh and Jadeja. They also have Karn Sharma as back-up.
Murali Vijay, Kedar Jadhav, and Ambati Rayudu are all experienced batsmen and they know their role very well. They will have to provide the platform and also ensured the increased run-rate.
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Foreign Contingent:
CSK has the African young sensation Lungi Ngidi, he will be a surprise package for this season. In Dwayne Bravo, they have the most successful bowler in the T20s. FAF Du Plessis will provide the stability to the batting order. Sam Billings and Mark Wood will enjoy the platform to make a name for themselves.
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Probable XI:
Murali Vijay
FAF Du Plessis $
Suresh Raina
Ambati Rayudu
MS Dhoni
Kedar Jadhav
Dwayne Bravo $
Ravindra Jadeja
Imran Tahir $/ Harbhajan Singh
Lungi Ngidi/Mark Wood $
Shardul Thakur/Deepak Chahar
$ – Foreign Players
Variations:
CSK have a backup spinner in Karn Sharma who has a great IPL experience behind him. Sam Billings can be tried to break the monotony that is apparent in the batting lineup. Dhruv Shorey can be tried at the top if needed.
