CSK XI: Ambati Rayudu Predicts Dhoni's New Batting Order And Team Changes

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are among the most loved teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), thanks mainly to MS Dhoni's presence. Eliminated during last year's group stage, CSK will be back stronger with the aim of their sixth IPL title after their 2023 win.

Ambati Rayudu's Prediction for CSK XI

Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu shared his thoughts on CSK's possible playing XI for the upcoming season. Notably, Noor Ahmed, who was signed for ₹10 crore, was excluded from his predicted lineup.

Batting Order Adjustments

Rayudu suggested changes in MS Dhoni's batting position along with other strategic moves:

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway should open the innings.
  • Champions Trophy top run-scorer Rachin Ravindra must bat at number three.
  • For the fourth number position, Rayudu spoke of a fight between Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, and Vijay Shankar.
  • Overseas player Sam Curran must bat at number eight.
  • He recommended Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, and MS Dhoni to bat at positions five, six, and seven respectively.

Rayudu highlighted that giving Dhoni a promotion further up the order can improve the likelihood of seeing more attacking batting and sixes than in his number eight role last season.

Bowling Lineup Suggestions

For the bowling unit, Rayudu had these suggestions:

  • As the second spinner, he favored Ravichandran Ashwin over Noor Ahmed due to his all-round capabilities.
  • In the pace attack, Matheesha Pathirana was confirmed as the leading pacer.
  • Rayudu proposed including Anshul Kamboj, who excelled in the Ranji Trophy, instead of Khaleel Ahmed as the second fast bowler.

Predicted CSK XI by Ambati Rayudu

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad
  • Devon Conway
  • Rachin Ravindra
  • Rahul Tripathi/Deepak Hooda/Vijay Shankar
  • Shivam Dube
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • MS Dhoni
  • Sam Curran
  • Ravichandran Ashwin
  • Anshul Kamboj
  • Matheesha Pathirana

Rayudu's suggested lineup emphasizes a balanced combination of experience, emerging talent, and strategic batting order adjustments to enhance CSK's chances in the upcoming IPL season.