The unique case of Chennai Super Kings: For the IPL’s most successful side, Dhoni still too big a shadow to come out of…
Whether Dhoni is leading the side or not, his smartness from behind the stumps in making those surprise moves is what the CSK will definitely look for
HYDERABAD: There is a uniqueness to the Chennai Super Kings’ campaign in the IPL over the years. The awe-inspiring presence of the legend MS Dhoni, who arguably still continues to be the biggest star attraction even in the twilight of his career.
So, when CSK, with opener Ruturaj Gaikwad leading for the second season, begins yet another journey in the IPL, it will probably chase history to win the maximum number of titles – six.
It is pretty obvious whether Dhoni is leading the side or not, his smartness from behind the stumps in making those surprise moves is what the CSK will definitely look for.
The welcome return of former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and crowd favourite Sam Curran are great assets for sure, for any team in fact.
Like over the years, CSK seems to be keen to look to its strength – spin as the addition of Ashwin and Young Afghan spinner Noor Ahmed besides Ravindra Jadeja can be a deadly weapon for any team taking on them.
For a team which missed out on the playoffs last season as it finished just outside the top four with 14 points from as many games with seven wins, it would be determined to change the script this season.
The team which has the likes of Rachin Ravindra, big-hitting Shivam Dube in batting, experienced Vijay Shankar and in bowling attack in the safe hands of Khaleel Ahmed, Nathan Ellis and the deadly Matheesha Pathirana, who constantly reminds illustrious predecessor Lasith Malinga with his speed, accuracy and stinging yorkers.
One of the stars of IPL a few years ago, Rahul Tripathi, all-rounders Deepak Hooda, and Shreyas Gopal are in the squad to whom the CSK think-tank can always bank on if the situation merits.
Clearly, CSK is one team again in the IPL whether one likes it or not, the focus of attention will be the great Dhoni and what role and how he performs can well be a significant contributor to its campaign this season also.
