The men in yellow have been off a terrific start upon their return to the IPL. Despite hovering around the top of the points table, the franchise have some areas to work upon and their case is not helped by the fact that Suresh Raina would be missing the fixture.
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Let’s have a look at how the two time champions are likely to line-up against the resurgent Kings XI Punjab at Mohali.
Shane Watson
The experienced all-rounder has been a welcome addition to the team this campaign so far. Watson has put in vital contributions with the bat and ball which is why he is expected to retain his place in the squad as they travel to Mohali.
David Willey
The England all-rounder was called in as a replacement after injury strikes to Mitchell Santner and Kedar Jadhav. Willey is known for his exploits as a makeshift opener and would be a useful addition in the pace department at the Mohali track.
Ambati Rayudu
The promotion of the former Mumbai Indians batsman came as a surprise to many, but the batsman has helped his way with a couple of fluent knocks with a big score looming by.
Due to his touch in the recent games, the franchise would be hoping that Rayudu replicates the role of no.3 with the temporary absence of Suresh Raina.
This move won’t be a new experience for the right hand batsman having already playing in the middle order for his former franchise.
MS Dhoni
The ploy of moving the skipper up the order has definitely not worked as the former Indian captain has failed to create any sort of impact and in fact has added pressure over the course of the two chases so far for the team.
Dhoni’s calm decision making and work behind the wickets will be irreplaceable.
Sam Billings
The England youngster showed his potential with a match defining knock at the CHepauk against KKR. Billings definitely deserves a push up the order as the former Delhi Daredevils player is more than just a finisher.
His ability to strike the ball clean, will be a useful addition to get the runs flowing in the middle overs.
Dwayne Bravo
The West Indian all-rounder has been in sublime touch after his return to his old franchise. Bravo has made crucial contributions resulting in victories for the side.
Bravo’s pinch hitting skills, stellar death bowling and work in the field is more than enough to retain his place in the lineup.
Ravindra Jadeja
Except for the finish against Kolkata Knight Riders, the all rounder is yet to make a significant contribution for the team. Although a change is unlikely for the next game, Jadeja will have to turn up soon to keep his place in the line up secure.
Karn Sharma
With the evolution of Indian leg spinners evident throughout the tournament, the Super Kings could try their hand with a leg spinner as well after spending a fortune on Karn Sharma.
Tahir might have to sit out the game with the shortage of the batsman being a concern for the men in yellow.
Harbhajan Singh
Despite not completing his quota of four overs in either games, Harbhajan Singh will be a definite addition with the match being held in his home state. The turbanator can take encouragement from Ashwin’s performances at the same ground a few days back.
Deepak Chahar
The right arm pacer failed to transpire his performance from the Wankhede over to Chepauk and was taken off the attack after just bowling a single over.
The youngster will have a huge task on hand as they look to tackle the explosive KXIP top-order with KL Rahul looking in lethal touch.
Shardul Thakur
The pacer did a decent job with his variations after missing the first game. Thakur will look for a good outing against his former franchise.
