IPL 2023, MI vs CSK: In what came as a big blow to MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Ben Stokes was doubtful for Mumbai Indians (MI) clash in the Indian Premier League 2023 on Saturday evening. According to The Indian Express, the English all-rounder was prescribed 10 days of recuperation after experiencing heel pain following a practice session at the Wankhede Stadium on Friday. However, prior to the start of the game Stokes was seen warming up, which means that he is likely to play the game.
Those who are aware of the development suggest Stokes might not risk playing in the game vs MI. The CSK medical team will analyse the situation on Saturday afternoon before making a final decision.
Will the real slim shade-y please stand up! 😎#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/cQ6gPhGeZ8
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 7, 2023
Stokes was purchased by Super Kings for INR 16.25 crore (GPB 1.6 million) in the mini-auction held in December. He has participated in both of Chennai’s opening two games this season, scoring 15 runs in his first two innings while also bowling his first over of the competition in the win over Lucknow Super Giants on Monday night.
Ben Stokes: Successor of MS Dhoni?
Everyone in CSK camp sees Ben Stokes as an obvious choice for captain if and when MS Dhoni decides to stand down. The all-rounder has already established himself as a “major component” of Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2023 line-up.
Although suggesting that a change may not be imminent, Moeen Ali remarked on Friday night that Stokes is an obvious choice to succeed the 41-year-old Dhoni as captain given his achievements with England.
One six for the man. One billion dreams for India.
Time to memoralise it!#WhistlePodu #Yellove @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/PC5O1JWHOh— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 7, 2023
Stokes is clearly having a great time, according to Moeen.
“CSK is the type of franchise where you come here and you do tend to enjoy yourself and really love playing for this franchise. He’s settled in really well. He’s a big part of the team with his experience,” Ali said.
When asked if Stokes was a member of the team’s leadership group, Moeen responded, “There’s no real such leadership group: you have the captain and the coaches, and they talk. If Dhoni wants Ben Stokes’ advice, or a chat with him, it’s a very open environment in that changing room.”
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