IPL 2024 – Match 18, SRH vs CSK: Maheesh Theekshana to replace Mustafizur Rahman? Chennai Super Kings Probable Playing 11 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

The 18th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 will have Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their home den at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad on Friday, 5 April 2024.

The newly appointed skipper of Chennai has been struggling for runs this season. However, this is likely the only concern in the Chennai lineup currently.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Batting Struggles Continue

Ruturaj Gaikwad, despite his current struggles, is known for his ability to score freely and will likely find his form soon since he is very hard to contain.

Chennai has had a strong start in the powerplay so far, despite their skipper’s struggles with the bat. This is largely due to Rachin Ravindra, who aggressively takes on the bowlers right from the start of the innings.

Ravindra’s aggressive approach to the bowlers from the word “GO” makes it challenging for the opposition captain to devise effective plans against him.

Ajinkya Rahane is back amongst the runs which is a good sign considering the kind of stability he provides to the Chennai team.

Daryl Mitchell Yet to Find Form This Season

Daryl Mitchell is yet to find his groove this season, but shouldn’t be far considering the kind of player he is. Sandwiched between them, Shivam Dube is the ace card of the Chennai side.

Rahane and Mitchell shield Dube with their superior game against fast bowling, giving Dube the license to go for a kill against the darters.

MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja looked in fine touch in their last outing, especially Dhoni who turned the clock back with magnificent hitting.

Ravindra Jadeja’s Lower Strike Rate in Death Overs

Jadeja will have to be mindful of his strike rate in the death overs as it has been lower lately. In terms of his bowling, he has been the sole spinner for two consecutive games.

This situation should change now with Mustafizur Rahman returning home to complete Visa formalities for the T20 World Cup in June. He’ll likely be replaced by Maheesh Theekshana or Shardul Thakur if they prioritize batting depth.

Deepak Chahar and Mateesha Pathirana will retain their place in the side, Chahar will again look to be amongst wickets with the new cherry while Pathirana will take the load of the death bowling.

If Chennai bowls first, their Impact player should be Sameer Rizvi and if they bat it will be Tushar Deshpande.

Here’s how the XI of Chennai Super Kings is looking ahead of their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad :

Probable XI of CSK vs SRH

Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (WK), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Shardul Thakur/Mitchell Santner/ Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Impact Player: Sameer Rizvi