Ashwin suggests Karun Nair as the likely successor to Ambati Rayudu in CSK for IPL 2024, highlighting Dhoni’s preference for bridging the top and middle orders.
Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by MS Dhoni, might consider Indian batsman Karun Nair as a replacement for the retired Ambati Rayudu to reinforce their middle-order batting. Despite the option of signing Shahrukh Khan, released by Punjab Kings, Ashwin believes CSK may lean towards Nair. He mentioned CSK’s inclination to avoid untested newcomers solely based on early Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy success, hinting they might explore a left-hand option but are unlikely to veer from their track record of not picking unknown talents.
“I have a feeling that they will invest it on Karun Nair. They are searching for a replacement for Ambati Rayudu. Shahrukh is not a replacement for him at No.4. I have no idea who they are going to play in that position this season. They might try a left-hand option but if you look at CSK’s track record, they have never gone for an unknown commodity. They have never played anybody who just did well in their first season of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. So Karun Nair, folks, brace yourself to see him in yellow. I am not committing to anything, just doing a little Ravi Shastri impression,” Ashwin said.
The Indian spinner also highlighted MS Dhoni’s penchant for batters adept at handling spin and bridging the gap between top and middle orders, underlining Karun Nair’s suitability for the No.4 position at CSK.
“He is somebody who can play spin well, who could sweep and reverse sweep. MS Dhoni loves it when there is a batter who can play between the top order and the middle order in the No.4 slot, especially in Chennai. I feel Karun Nair is perfect for that. He could also go to SRH, there will be competition so he could go for a decent price. He has also done well in County cricket recently,” Ashwin concluded.
The upcoming IPL 2024 auction, scheduled for December 19 in Dubai, holds potential for Karun’s prospects following his recent performances in the Karnataka Premier League (KPL) and County cricket.
Last Updated on December 3, 2023
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