IPL 2021: I See Shades Of Saeed Anwar In Moeen Ali's Batting; MS Dhoni Utilising Him Very Well, Says Ashish Nehra

Ashish Nehra has praised Moeen Ali for his batting in IPL 2021 so far. The former India pacer Nehra said that he sees shades of former Pakistan batsman Saeed Anwar in Moeen Ali’s batting. Moeen Ali was bought by Chennai Super Kings for Rs. 7 crores during IPL 2021 auctions. Ali has shown great performance for his new franchisee Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2021 so far while batting at no.3 spot.

The English cricketer has played 6 matches so far and scored 206 runs. Ali has also batted at a very good strike rate of 157+ so far. His quickfire batting style has enabled Chennai Super Kings to increase their run rate in the middle overs and at the start.

In the previous match against Mumbai Indians, Moeen Ali smashed a blistering 36-ball-58. However, Mumbai Indians chased the 219-run target with the help of Kieron Pollard’s 87.

Ashish Nehra hails Moeen Ali

I See Shades Of Saeed Anwar In Moeen Ali: Ashish Nehra

While speaking to Cricbuzz, Ashish Nehra said that he sees shades of Saeed Anwar in Moeen Ali’s batting. Nehra also said that CSK skipper MS Dhoni is utilising Ali very well in IPL 2021.

“Moeen [Ali] is a very chilled out and relaxed person. I see shades of Saeed Anwar in his batting. He never seems under pressure. He is a utility player and MS Dhoni is utilising him really well,” Ashish Nehra said.

Nehra also said that Ali is now contributing more runs to the team.

“Before today, he was only scoring 30 or 40 runs but now he has crossed that. If a player like Moeen Ali, who can contribute with both bat and ball, provides you with 40-45 runs after every three or four matches; then things will work out in your favour,” Ashish Nehra further said.

So far, Chennai Super Kings have won 5 matches out of 7. With 10 points, CSK are placed on the 2nd spot in IPL 2021 points table after Delhi Capitals. However, Chennai Super Kings have the highest net run rate of +1.263. Chennai Super Kings is scheduled to face Rajasthan Royals in their next match.

However, the match is likely to be postponed since CSK players have been asked to go under 6-day quarantine. The decision comes after three support staff members of Chennai Super Kings including bowling coach Laxmipathy Balaji have tested positive for Covid-19.