CSK’s pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman’s visa complications for the T20 World Cup cast a shadow of doubt on his availability in CSK’s next IPL match.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s participation in the team’s upcoming clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is uncertain. The Bangladeshi left-arm seamer has reportedly returned to Bangladesh to sort out visa formalities for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA, which starts on June 1st.
The 28-year-old pacer has been a revelation for CSK this season, leading their bowling attack with his fiery pace and deceptive cutters. In just three matches, he has scalped a tournament-high seven wickets at an impressive average of 15.14 and an economical rate of 8.83.
His absence could force Chennai to shuffle their bowling line-up. Sri Lankan mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana or England’s all-rounder Moeen Ali could potentially replace Rahman. Though the replacements have not been confirmed yet, if Chennai opts for a domestic replacement, a fully recovered Mukesh Choudhary could be considered.
Notably, earlier, CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons emphasised the importance of squad flexibility. “Having options all the way through your line-up is very important. One of the things is having a squad that gives you balance. You can make those sorts of adjustments. If you can’t make those adjustments, then you can’t utilise the assets that you’ve got. And the fact that they’re so different… Having a left-armer is important; some of the balls are kind of slow, but what he [Mustafizur] does, and then the uniqueness of Matheesha as well, that’s a massive asset. No one likes to face him; our batsmen don’t like to face him, so I’m sure the opposition doesn’t either,” Simons remarked, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Chennai currently sits comfortably at number three on the points table with two wins in three games, both victories coming at their home ground, Chepauk. The men in yellow will next face the Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5th in Hyderabad.
Last Updated on April 3, 2024
