IPL 2018 : CSK’s probable XI without Raina and Dhoni

CSK have made a great start to IPL 2018 , as they won the first two matches before coming really close and falling short by four runs in their third match.

All three matches went into the final over, which has brought heart stopping conclusions to all three matches so far.

But CSK have been hit by injuries, as Suresh Raina and then MS Dhoni are both doubtful for their next match against Rajasthan Royals.

Here we look at the possible CSK XI without Raina and Dhoni in their side.

OPENERS

Shane Watson and Murali Vijay will be tasked with opening the batting for the Chennai franchise.

While Watson has already shown his ability at the top, Vijay will be looking to perform well, and show us all why he should be considered as one of the best opening batsmen in the country today.

MIDDLE ORDER

Rayudu will fill in for Raina at number three, as the versatile player will look to continue his good form in the tournament so far.

Dhoni’s absence will be felt, and CSK will be looking at South African star, Faf du Plessis as an adequate replacement. The other option is to draft in David Willey, but the batting will take a real beating if that happens.

Sam Billings will take over the gloves from Dhoni.

Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo will do the job of all the all-rounders. Jadeja was retained by the CSK franchise whereas for Bravo, they used the RTM card.

Bravo would slot into that number 6 role, with Jaddu following him at 7. The duo can use the long handle to good effect and have done so in the past for CSK. Also, they will in all probability bowl their quota of 4 overs, with Bravo doing most of his bowling during the death overs and Jadeja plying his trade during the middle overs.

BOWLERS

With either Willey or Du Plessis coming in, Tahir will drop out and Karn Sharma will come in his place.

Thkaur and Chahar will compete for one position, while Harbhajan and Wood will complete the team.