IPL 2019: Here's what CSK's playing XI might look like
Without any doubt, Chennai Super Kings have been the most consistent side in the IPL and they will go into the 12th edition as the clear favorites. The MS Dhoni-led side won the title last season in an emphatic manner. CSK hardly had to do anything fancy in the auction after retaining majority of the squad. Here is what CSK's XI might look like.
Which players will constitute the top order?
CSK have a settled top order and after the heroics of last season, one would expect them to stick with the same top three batsmen. Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu amassed 1,100-plus runs between them last season. They are likely to open the innings for CSK. Veteran Suresh Raina has been the rock at number three over the years. He should retain his position.
A look at CSK's middle order
MS Dhoni promoted himself to number four several times in IPL 2018 and had a successful season with the bat. The skipper would fancy coming in after Raina. Kedar Jadhav missed out due to an injury last time, and he will be raring to have a crack. All-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja are the finishers. They have won matches aplenty for Chennai.
A look at the bowling options for CSK
Mitchell Santner has been in prime form for the Kiwis in white-ball cricket. The left-arm spinner is lethal due to his wicket-taking abilities. He is a handy batsmen as well. At number nine, pacer Shardul Thakur comes in. He was among the wickets last season. Mohit Sharma could lend him support. South Africa's Lungi Ngidi fills in the final spot.
Squad analysis of CSK going into IPL 2019
CSK have a talented pool of players, who can make their presence felt irrespective of which position and circumstance they find themselves in. They also have quality options on the bench. From pace, spin to top-order batting, CSK are well loaded. One would expect squad rotation to manage the workload. CSK have the least number of issues and would look to defend the title.
