There are more teams now in IPL, it increases competitiveness between teams. Good thing for CSK is that they will play half of their matches at Fortress Chepauk this season, they have quite good record playing at home.
Playing games at Cheapauk will strengthen their bowling attack first of all, with Moeen Ali, Maheesh Theekshana and Ravindra Jadeja in action for the on a relatively slow pitch compared to other grounds.
It was very important for them to fix their middle order, and with addition of a player like Ben Stokes, the team certainly appears to have more depth in both batting and bowling department.
Key To Win Are All Rounders For CSK
It is definite that Conway and Stokes will be part of CSK’s permanent playing 11. Moeen Ali, too, can change the game on his own at any stage of the game. So, he’ll be always around the team squad. But if he goes in, then from Theekshana, Pretorius and Santer, only one will be able to join the playing 11.
In total there are plenty of options for CSK in the bowling department, they will always take on field with 6 proper bowlers, 2 of them will be international all rounders.
CSK Batting Comes With Depth
Last year, it CSK’s batting that really gave them some tough outings. Once again, the trust is in Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway for opening the attack, while Raidu will take the last slot of top order batter.
The case of Ajinkya Rahane will be interesting, for it will depend on Gaikwad’s performance in first two matches, if will decide to continue with him or Rahane will be given the opening slot because there’s no way Rahane can be added to the middle order.
Next to come will be Shivam Dube, it appears that CSK wants to go with one attacking batsman and one anchor role player. MS Dhoni or Ben Stokes will come next depending on the game situation, and if Moeen Ali is in the team, he will be pushed up to the batting slot and Dhoni will demote his batting order.
Still Sir Jadeja will be left to bat alongside an Indian all rounder. The team looks fantastic, it has experience, firepower, depth, talent, finishers and a cut above match winners.
It will be hard to stop Chennai Super Kings this season as they will be eyeing on another trophy. IPL 2023 is going to be one of best seasons for CSK.