The wait is finally over, as the eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League kicks off at the Wankhede Stadium tomorrow.
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Defending champions Mumbai Indians will take on Chennai Super Kings in the opening match of the tournament, as Rohit Sharma’s side will try to open their account with a win.
There will be a lot of hype around CSK, as MS Dhoni’s side returns after a two-year hiatus from the competition. The Yellow Army will certainly have a presence in Mumbai tomorrow, as they will look pick up an opening win.
So that being said, here we look at the probable XI that CSK will put out on the field.
OPENERS:
Murali Viay
A crucial component of the legendary CSK side, Vijay’s game has significantly changed since he last played for Dhoni’s side. The Tamil Nadu star is now far more of a stable presence on the crease, as opposed to the attacking star during his first stint with CSK.
Shane Watson
Watson should be the most likely partner for Murali Vijay at the top of CSK’s batting lineup. Now at the fag end of his illustrious career, Watson is likely to play the role of an aggressor at the top, and should complement Vijay nicely.
MIDDLE ORDER:
Suresh Raina
The highest run scorer in IPL history, Suresh Raina will return to his favoured numer three spot for CSK, as the iconic player will once again be the batting talisman of the Chennai side. The batting will surely revolve around Raina, as he will look to be the batting linchpin of the side.
MS Dhoni (captain)
The legendary MS Dhoni should play at number four in this batting order, as CSK’s captain will be tasked with building the innings before he gives it a final flourish. At this stage of his career, Dhoni will need some time to get in, which is why this is the best spot for him in this lineup.
Ravindra Jadeja
The all-rounder is expected to play a bigger role as a batsman this season, as Jadeja will look to become a crucial member of CSK’s middle order. While his bowling and fielding is bound to be first class, it is his batting that will take him to the next level as a performer.
Amabati Rayudu
One of the most under rated players in IPL history, Rayudu will play the role of a floater in this CSK setup, as he will be asked to go in as and when the situation demands it.
ALL-ROUNDERS
Kedar Jadhav
The plucky all-rounder from Pune will play the role of a finisher for CSK, as Jadhav will hope to bring some of his international form into this season’s IPL. Jadhav will be returning after an injury, which is why this will be a crucial season for him to get back into the national side.
Dwayne Bravo
The great West Indian will once again play for his beloved CSK, as Bravo will act as one of the leaders of the bowling attack. Still a fine death bowler, Bravo will be crucial for Dhoni’s side, as his vast experience should come in handy as the tournament goes on.
BOWLERS
Harbhajan Singh
Another Mumbai Indians legend, Bhajji is expected to have a very good tournament, as his skill and experience should come in handy as the competition goes along. Playing at the Wankhede again will surely be special for Bhajji, and he will expect to put in a great performance on his old stomping ground.
Mark Wood
English pace bowler, Mark Wood, will open the with the new ball for CSK. The quickie will be playing his first IPL, and should be hyped up to play in front of what will be a jam packed Wankhede stadium.
