When Chennai Super Kings splurged Rs 16 crore on Ben Stokes in the auctions, it showed desperation. A team that normally never goes for more than Rs 10 cr for an international player broke the bank for Stokes, because MS Dhoni is likely to retire after this season. The future begins now for the franchise.
STRENGTH: Experienced players who know what it is like to deliver on the big stage. Plus the leadership skills of MS Dhoni.
WEAKNESS: Pace-bowling pool looks slightly weak. Deepak Chahar is coming back after a long lay-off and the attack lacks a hit-the-deck bowler who can consistently bowl at speeds of 140-plus kmph.
OPPORTUNITY: Pitches at Chepauk can be tailor-made for their spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Maheesh Theeksana to weave their magic.
THREAT: They might struggle to match the firepower of some of the teams who tend to play a high-tempo game.
KEY PLAYERS
Ben Stokes: Explosive batter, brilliant fielder and a leader. If he bowls, Stokes will be a complete package.
Ravindra Jadeja: The most crucial player in the CSK lineup with his allround abilities.
Deepak Chahar: No. 1 pacer of the team. Has to deliver to help CSK make an impact.'
NEW PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Matheesha Pathirana: Sri Lankan slinger with a lot of promise. Can be used as an impact substitute.
Simarjeet Singh: The Delhi pacer has shown promise and is rated highly by the CSK team management. Can he deliver?
Subhranshu Senapati: Odisha right-hander who can shape up into a useful middle-order batsman.
INJURY WATCH
Pacers Kylie Jamieson and Mukesh Choudhary have been ruled out.
