IPL 2018: Probable playing XI for Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings are making a comeback to IPL and once again the yellow brigade will be expected to go big under the leadership of Dhoni. MSD has led CSK to two IPL titles and they have been one of the most consistent sides. They open their campaign on April 7 against Mumbai Indians. Here we analyze the probable starting XI for the franchise.
Veteran stars to open for CSK
CSK will most likely let senior players Murali Vijay and Shane Watson open the innings in IPL 11. Former Aussie all-rounder Watson has been a consistent performer in IPL over the years and will look to set the tempo atop. In Vijay, CSK have someone who has played for them earlier. Vijay and Watson could thrive as a pair, given their experience and intelligence.
In Raina, MSD and Faf, CSK have a classy middle-order
Three big guns come to the party in the middle-order. An in-form Suresh Raina at number 3 is vital as he can dictate the game from the start. Faf du Plessis is likely to come in next and be the rock of the team during the middle overs. At number 5, the skipper Dhoni will come and play naturally as a finisher.
Jadhav at 6 and then the two all-rounders
Kedar Jadhav, bought for Rs. 7.8 crore, will come in at number 6. He is an able customer, who is always busy looking for runs and boundaries. West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo at number 7 will entertain with his big shots and would be an asset in bowling as well. In Ravindra Jadeja the batting looks deep besides four assured overs of quality spin.
Bhajji, pacers to complete the line-up
Harbhajan Singh, a veteran customer of the IPL, will don the yellow jersey for the first time. The off-spinner has three IPL titles under his belt and will be a key asset for MSD. South African pacer Lungi Ngidi could get a look in for his raw pace. Shardul Thakur, who has impressed for India in limited overs, fills up the last slot.
