The Chennai Super Kings were the indomitable force that every side prepared for the most until just last season. But their concerns were documented in the last season when they failed to qualify for the play-offs for the first time by winning just six out of their fourteen games. This season they will play five games in Mumbai, four in Delhi, three in Bengaluru and two in Kolkata.
Strengths : –
They have quite a lot of players who have appearances in every season of the IPL which adds to the experience factor.
Their batting depth has the potential to reach up to number eleven.
A lot of all-rounders who can contribute to the side in more than one way.
Dhoni’s captaincy cannot be ignored on the basis of one bad season.
Weaknesses : –
They do not have an express pace bowler who can clock above 140 km/hr on a regular basis.
The top order full of anchors in Faf, Rayudu and Gaikwad. They do not have a gun batsman in that position.
Lack of newness in their overall team composition resulting in the side being predictable.
Going into a long tournament like the IPL and considering the fact that some of the players have not played competitive cricket in recent times, fitness could be an issue.
Keys to Success : –
1. Introduction of a power-hitter in the top order.
2. Need Tahir to start for them.
3. Jadeja, Ali and Curran to play key roles in finishing off games.
4. Their batsmen should play well against pace bowling.
Team Combination : –
1. Gaikwad 2. Faf 3. Raina 4. Rayudu 5. Ali 6. Dhoni 7. Jadeja 8. Curran 9. Shardul 10. Thakur 11. Ngidi/Bravo/Tahir.
Ngidi can play for Bravo if batting depth is not required. Another candidate for the position would be Tahir. Robin Uthappa can play as an opener.
Possible Finish : –
Top 4.
Thanks for reading the article and do share your thoughts @kanzzpp on Twitter and @shortlegcricketblog on Instagram!
Kanishk Sharma 