IPL 2018 MI vs CSK: Here’s What to Expect as Chennai Super Kings Return to Indian Premier League After two Years
Amidst fanfare, CSK returns to Indian Premier League.
On the opening night of Indian Premier League 2018 (IPL 2018), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) return to the league after a gap of two years. The Chennai based franchise will be up against defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. The last time CSK were in action was during the 2015 edition. And interestingly, Mumbai Indians were their opponents that time as well. It was the final of IPL 2015, which CSK lost by 41 runs. The subsequent two years saw CSK out of the league and amidst fanfare, the two-time champions return.
Captain Cool Show
With CSK, MS Dhoni returns as captain. Dhoni, who played for Rising Pune Supergiants captained the franchise in 2016. He, however, was removed as captain for 2017 edition. So, it is the return of ‘captain cool’ along with CSK. Dhoni has captained Super Kings right from the inaugural season and under his leadership, CSK won two IPL titles.
Whistle Podu Time
CSK happens to be one of the most followed teams in the IPL. The franchise enjoys a huge base of loyal fans. And it was evident during CSK practice match as well. Reportedly, 10,000 fans attended CSK practice game at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai a few days back. With CSK’s return, it is Whistle Podu time!
Ashwin Will be Missed?
CSK managed to bring back players who were part of the side in (or till) 2015. However, one of the most important names in their previous squads, Ravi Ashwin is missing. The spinner was snapped by Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) ahead of this season and will lead the Punjab based franchise. Ashwin was instrumental in CSK’s success, having scalped 90 wickets from 97 matches he played for the team. CSK will probably miss him in their ranks!
Players like Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo and Murali Vijay will also return in the yellow jersey. Interestingly, Vijay will play for CSK after a gap of four years. The right-hander played for Delhi Daredevils in 2014 and represented Kings XI Punjab in 2015 and 2016. Following an injury, he missed the last season of IPL.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 07, 2018 05:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).