Chennai Super Kings (CSK), renowned as one of the most successful franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) history under the leadership of MS Dhoni. The team is poised to embark on another season with Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK captain.
In the previous year, the Men in Yellow clinched their fifth IPL title by defeating the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans with a five-wicket victory, thereby equalling the record held by Mumbai Indians for the most league triumphs. Under Dhoni's guidance, CSK appeared in 10 IPL finals out of the 16 editions thus far, securing the title on five memorable occasions - in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. Money Control takes a look at the team and what may lie in store for CSK.
CSK STRENGTH:
CSK has all the elements aligned in their favor, a formidable team, the advantage of opening matches at home, and the prospect of playing the final at Chepauk. This season could potentially mark the perfect swansong for the team, which is fully prepared for the challenge.
Their squad boasts remarkable depth. Nearly every member has international exposure, understanding the demands of performing on the grand stage.
Blessed with a lineup featuring MS Dhoni, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dubey, Moeen Ali, Daryl Mitchell, Jadeja, and Ruturaj Gaikwad himself, CSK possesses an array of power-hitters who can switch gears when needed.
Moreover, the inclusion of Shardul Thakur bolsters CSK's Indian fast-bowling contingent, complementing the talents of Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary, and Rajvardhan Hangargekar already in their ranks.
CSK WEAKNESS:
The team will be anxiously awaiting the return of their top death bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, who is sidelined due to injury. Furthermore, the challenges of injuries to opening batsman Devon Conway and recent acquisition Mustafizur Rahman, along with Ajinkya Rahane's lack of form in domestic cricket, may prove to be hurdles for the team to overcome.
CSK OPPORTUNITY:
The intimidation factor this team possesses is unparalleled, causing opposition teams to frequently falter under its pressure. It's likely to be the case once again this time around. Another significant advantage for CSK came with the inclusion of seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who will enhance their pace attack while also contributing to the team's batting lineup.
CSK THREAT:
The team's capacity to perform well in away matches may be challenged, particularly due to the possibility of the bowling attack being less effective on pitches favoring batsmen. Additionally, the presence of injury-prone players such as Chahar, Pathirana, and Jadeja raises concerns about their fitness, which could potentially hinder CSK's performance.
CSK PLAYING XI
Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra, Sameer Rizvi, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni , Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana.
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