IPL 2018: Three Players Who Could Replace Suresh Raina in the Playing XI for Chennai
Apr 12, 2018 at 12:20 PM
Chennai Super Kings are currently in the midst of a huge injury crisis. The team had lost talented New Zealand left-arm spinner, Mitchell Santner, ahead of the IPL 2018.
However, they had not replaced him. But an injury to Kedar Jadhav hit like a body blow to the franchise. In the first game against Mumbai Indians in the Wankhede Stadium, Kedar Jadhav had pulled his hamstring and went back to the dug-out.
But with only seven runs required and all the players back in the hut, Jadhav came back to bat and clinched a memorable victory for Chennai Super Kings. Reports on Sunday suggested he suffered a grade 2 hamstring tear. This meant he was ruled out of IPL 2018.
In the second game against Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai team got another major set back. Their most important middle-order batsman Suresh Raina suffered a calf injury while batting.
He subsequently got out trying to play big shots. Suresh Raina was later seen in a strapped leg.
However, it is revealed he would miss the next two Chennai Super Kings games. Here we take a look at three potential replacements who could be available for the franchise.
Murali Vijay
The Indian international had played a massive role for Chennai Super Kings in the past. With the absence of Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay could be tested out by the team management.
He brings in the experience to the batting line-up. Also with him being an opener, either Shane Watson or Ambati Rayudu will be pushed into the middle order. It looks the most viable option at the moment.
Dhruv Shorey
The Delhi player was in very good form in the recently concluded domestic season. He made some crucial runs for Delhi this season.
He was picked up Chennai Super Kings in the auction for his base price of ₹ 20 Lakh. However, it remains to be seen if Stephen Fleming & Co. would give the youngster a go in the next couple of games.
Narayan Jagadeesan
The 22-year old is considered as one of the rising talents in Tamil Nadu cricket. He made his professional debut for Tamil Nadu last season. He was quite successful in TNPL past year.
He could also get a nod if needed be. He was picked out for his base price of ₹20 Lakh. But he looks a distant option at the moment, considering the experience of Murali Vijay and form of Dhruv Shorey.
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