IPL 2022: Chennai Super Kings Predicted Playing XI For The First Match Of The Tournament

Chennai Super Kings are hailed as one of the most consistent teams in the history of the Indian Premier League. Under the leadership of MS Dhoni, CSK have consistently put in dominant performances. The franchise won their fourth title last year after beating KKR in the final.

Unfortunately, they had to release most of the players in that squad ahead of the Mega Auctions 2022. Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali, and Ruturaj Gaikwad were the four names who were retained for the next edition of the tournament. Much to the delight of the fans, CSK have managed to bring some of the existing members back into the auctions after bidding for them heavily at the auctions.

They invested heavily in the likes of Deepak Chahar (14 crores) and Ambati Rayudu (6.75 crores). Besides, they also managed to bring Robin Uthappa, Mitchell Santner, and Dwayne Bravo back into the team. Among the new faces, the likes of Devon Conway, Adam Milne, Shivam Dube, etc will be the ones to watch out for.

IPL 2022: Chennai Super Kings Predicted Playing XI For The First Match Of The Tournament

Openers: Robin Uthappa and Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad had a stellar season last year. He finished the tournament as the highest run-getter. In 16 matches, he managed to score 635 runs at an average of 45.36 and a strike rate of close to140. Gaikwad formed a successful opening pair with Faf du Plessis.

However, the latter will be playing for RCB in the next season. CSK would be looking to make Robin Uthappa open the innings. Robin Uthappa warmed the bench for the major chunk of IPL 2021. However, when he got the chance he showed what he is capable of. He is likely to open the innings with Gaikwad in IPL 2022.

Middle-Order: Moeen Ali, MS Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu,

Moeen Ali played at number three last season and he did an outstanding job. The franchise would be wanting to him make a similar impact this year as well. At five and six will be the experienced duo of Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu. Both will be key to the team’s fortune. However, both are past their prime. Whether they would be able to fulfil their roles the bat remains to be seen.

All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Dwaine Pretorius, Dwayne Bravo

Ravindra Jadeja could be the ‘X’ factor player for CSK this year. He has made a vast improvement in his batting in the last two years. Jadeja could give those finishing touches and might be promoted in the batting order.

The franchise has managed to bring Dwayne Bravo back into the team and he will be an important part in the bowling attack. In a major blow for him, Deepak Chahar is likely to miss the major chunk of IPL 2022 and Dwaine Pretorius could do a similar job for them.

Bowlers: KM Asif and Adam Milne

KM Asif got only match to play in the last game. However, with Deepak Chahar not there for the major part of the tournament, he could get a lot more opportunities this time around. Besides, The franchise has also managed to acquire the services of New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne and he could be slotted in the playing XI for the first match of the tournament.