Chennai Super Kings is definitely one side that catches the attention every single year. Lead by one of the smartest cricketing brains in the form of MS Dhoni. The Kings are doing well this year after having a forgetful season last time. They are currently placed 2nd in the points table and look well set to make the playoffs. With their English Players deciding to play the league they also have their arsenal in place. Here’s a quick round-up of how the side is shaping before the beginning: –
Strengths of the Chennai Super Kings: –
The strength of the Super Kings lies in the fact that they possess a world of experience. Most of the players that are representing the Yellows are 34+ and have been through it all. They have the habit of playing through crunch situations and have mastered the art of winning games. Suresh Raina, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Imran Tahir, Faf, and obviously MS everyone has had leadership roles in the past. Another strength is their Indian Pacers. They have two of the top pace bowling all-rounders in the form of Thakur and Chahar.
Weakness of the Chennai Super Kings: –
An evident weakness in the team is poor fielding standards. The presence of Ravindra Jadeja and Faf does neutralize this but the likes of Raina and MSD are not lightning fast as they were. Aging does take a toll on the body and one cannot ignore that. Apart from that Chennai needs to figure out a good opener to pair with Ruturaj. With questions over the fitness of Faf, they need to explore other options such as Ambati or Ali.
Opportunities for the Chennai Super Kings: –
There are a few opportunities for the young guns in this team. Shardul has shined supremely with his bat in the recent past. In order to seal his position as a pace-bowling all-rounder, he needs to perform consistently with the bat. The same happens in the case of Deepak Chahar. With Hardik Pandya being off-color with the bat, these too can bang down the door to the National team.
Apart from that, it is a big opportunity for MSD to bid adieu to the sport he loves the most in an enthralling fashion. He will be looking to secure a 4th title for the Chennai Super Kings.
Threats for the Chennai Super Kings: –
The greatest threat is the possible absence of the English players in the playoffs. The English National Team is expected to withdraw their players at the dying end of the tournament so Moeen and Sam might just miss the important games. The other thing is to look for the fitness of the senior players. Dwayne Bravo and Faf Du Plessis are expected to stay fit.