Predicted CSK Playing XI vs RCB: Chennai Super Kings have a big dilemma ahead of their IPL 2024 season opener. Their highest run-getter from last season, Devon Conway, is out injured for their opening clash against the Royal Challengers Bangalore. His absence may effect the balance of the lineup and leave a big headache for Ruturaj Gaikwad regarding their playing XI for March 22.
Predicted CSK Playing XI vs RCB
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (c)
- Rachin Ravindra
- Ajinkya Rahane
- Shivam Dube
- Moeen Ali
- MS Dhoni (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Deepak Chahar
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Mustafizur Rahman
Impact Player: Tushar Deshpande
Kiwi for Kiwi: Rachin to make his debut
The ICC Emerging and New Zealand Cricketer of the Year 2023, Rachin Ravindra, will likely slot straight in for Conway as their opener. The southpaw has already proven his abilities on Indian pitches last year and has been in fine form this year. Another factor that helps his selection is his bowling. The handy left-arm orthodox spinner can be used on spin-friendly home tracks in Chennai.
Moeen Ali over Daryl Mitchell
Similar to last year, Moeen Ali should slot straight into the playing XI, especially at home. This means that their 14 crore pick, Daryl Mitchell, will have to sit out. The Kiwi all-rounder is a handy part-time medium pacer, but Moeen’s explosive batting and his off-spin will outweigh Mitchell’s brilliance with the bat.
No place for Sameer Rizvi
We are still unsure about the perfect batting spot for the talented youngster. Although thought to be a finisher or lower middle-order batter, CSK could have experimented with the batter as an opener. But, Ajinkya Rahane has successfully opened the batting before, and Rachin Ravindra is also a proven top-order batter, so Sameer misses out on with the rest of their batting lineup already settled.
