The 18th season of the IPL, India’s premier T20 league, kicks off on March 22. This year, 10 teams will compete for the title. The opening match will see defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders take on Royal Challengers Bangalore. Meanwhile, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will face Mumbai Indians (MI) in their first match on March 23 at the iconic Chepauk Stadium.
In an exciting update, former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has revealed his choice for CSK’s playing eleven for the upcoming IPL season.
According to Rayudu, Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain) and Devon Conway will open the batting. He has placed Rachin Ravindra in the third position and Rahul Tripathi at number four. However, Rayudu also mentioned that Deepak Hooda or Vijay Shankar could take that spot if needed.
For the middle order, Rayudu has picked Shivam Dube at number five, followed by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja at six and the legendary MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper) at seven. He has also included Sam Curran, another all-rounder, at number eight.
In the bowling department, Rayudu has chosen Ravichandran Ashwin, Anshul Kamboj, and Madisha Pathirana to complete the playing eleven.
Ambati Rayudu’s CSK Playing Eleven:
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain)
- Devon Conway
- Rachin Ravindra
- Rahul Tripathi / Deepak Hooda / Vijay Shankar
- Shivam Dube
- Ravindra Jadeja
- MS Dhoni (Wicketkeeper)
- Sam Curran
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Anshul Kamboj
- Madisha Pathirana