Veteran cricketer Sunil Gavaskar predicts Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to secure their 13th playoff berth in the IPL 2024, citing the team’s balanced blend of youth and experience.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming IPL 2024 season, cricket pundits are already weighing in on potential playoff contenders. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian captain, expressed confidence in the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), securing a playoff berth once again. With a rich history of playoff appearances, totaling 12 in previous seasons, CSK’s consistent performance is noteworthy.
Gavaskar emphasized CSK’s strategic acquisitions at the auction, addressing bowling and middle-order concerns, which he believes strengthens their chances. While the former captain refrained from labeling any team as outright favorites, he reiterated CSK’s track record, qualifying for the playoffs in 12 out of 16 editions, suggesting a high probability of their 13th playoff appearance.
“If you see the purchases they did at the auction table, the aspects they had to strengthen, it seemed like they lacked a little in bowling last year and in batting also they had to strengthen the middle order slightly after Ambati Rayudu’s retirement, they have done all that. They have a good mix of youth and experience,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports.
“So, I feel CSK will definitely come in the top four as always. You cannot say any team ‘definitely yes’ as favourites. However, the way the Chennai Super Kings have performed for so many years, they have qualified in 12 of the 16 editions. So it’s likely to happen for the 13th time,” he added.
In the auction, CSK strengthened their squad with overseas signings like Darryl Mitchell, Mustafizur Rahman, and Rachin Ravindra, alongside Indian talents Shardul Thakur, Sameer Rizvi, and Avanish Rao Aravelly.
Despite the fitness worries of players, Gavaskar also expressed confidence in CSK’s depth and versatility. He noted Shardul Thakur’s reacquisition, easing concerns about Deepak Chahar’s availability, as Thakur can step in if needed.
Furthermore, the former captain opined that the CSK squad won’t face any issues with their seam bowling. He pointed out Tushar Deshpande’s fitness and Mukesh Choudhary’s impressive past performances.
Deshpande emerged as CSK’s top wicket-taker in IPL 2023 with 21 scalps, while Choudhary, returning after a gap, showcased his prowess with 16 dismissals in IPL 2022. Their presence is expected to strengthen CSK’s seam-bowling department.
Last Updated on February 8, 2024
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