IPL 2022: Moeen Ali to miss CSK's opener versus KKR
English all-rounder Moeen Ali would be missing out on Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The 34-year-old has failed to obtain a visa to participate in the lucrative tournament which will commence from March 26 (Saturday). He's is currently stranded in London. Here's more.
Why does this story matter?
Moeen had applied for the Indian visa almost four weeks back. However, he hasn't been cleared by the Indian High Commission in London. CSK have got in touch with BCCI and other IPL officials to clear the visa-related issues. Prior to joining the bio-bubble, it's necessary for all the players to undergo mandatory three-day quarantine.
Kasi Viswanathan's statement on Moeen Ali's visa status
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told The Indian Express, "We were expecting Moeen to join us by Monday but because of the delay in issuing a visa, it is not clear when he will leave for Mumbai. He submitted the visa application on February 28, but because of the verification process, there has been a delay." He also indicated Moeen could miss the opener.
Moeen part of players retained by CSK for IPL 2022
Along with Moeen Ali, CSK retained the likes of Ravindra Jadeja (Rs. 16 crore), MS Dhoni (Rs. 12 crore) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (Rs. 6 crore) ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. The English cricketer was retained at a price of Rs. 8 crore.
Moeen Ali's performance in IPL 2021
The all-rounder proved to be one of the major contributors to CSK's titular campaign in IPL 2021. He amassed 357 runs in 15 matches at an average and strike rate of 25.50 and 137.51 respectively. With the ball, the off-spinner scalped 6 wickets at an economy of 6.36. Overall, Moeen has made 34 appearances, where he has aggregated 666 runs and picked 16 wickets.
How many games can Moeen miss?
It is still unsure as to how many matches the Englishman could miss. If everything goes well, then Moeen could make his appearance in CSK's second match of the season against Lucknow Super Giants on March 31. In addition to Moeen, Gujarat Titans' coaching staff member Abdul Naim, who also hails from London, is yet to get his visa cleared.
CSK vs KKR in IPL 2022 opener
The opening match of IPL 2022 sees four-time winners CSK face last season's finalists KKR in a mouth-watering contest. In terms of head-to-head, CSK enjoy an 18-9 record in wins over KKR. The match is scheduled to take place on March 26 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. It will start at 7:30 PM IST.
