Theekshana, Rachin To Return? CSK's Probable XI For IPL 2024 Match Vs SRH

Rachin Ravindra likely to make a comeback [AP] Rachin Ravindra likely to make a comeback [AP]

For the 46th IPL 2024 season clash, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be up against formidable opponents Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. With playoff qualification at stake, the upcoming fixture is crucial for both teams.

Despite being in a comfortable position at the start of the tournament, a couple of questionable losses against LSG have put CSK in a tough spot in the playoff race. 

CSK are now seated at the fifth spot with 8 points in 8 games. With 6 games left on the schedule, Ruturaj Gaikwad needs to gather his troops to bounce back before time eventually runs out.

CSK's journey so far

In the previous game, Marcus Stoinis of LSG pumped CSK's in-form bowling lineup with sheer class and elegant stroke play to chase down 211 runs target with 3 balls to spare. While Pathirana chipped in some wickets to create pressure, the rest of his peers released it with abysmal execution.

Mustafizur Rahman went for 51 runs in 3.3 overs and also finished with a 10.80 economy in the proceeding game.

CSK simply does not need these many pacers on Chepauk's wicket, and perhaps it's time for Maheesh Theekshana to return. Theekshana and Jadeja's partnership could prove to be pivotal against the in-form SRH batting unit.

Besides, Rachin Ravindra could also be recalled as Ajinkya Rahane does not seem to be settled at the top. Ruturaj must open up with Rachin, and Rahane should settle for a middle order to play more freely without any pressure.

Moeen Ali can be axed out to accommodate Rachin Ravindra, and either Shardul Thakur or Sameer Rizvi can be used as impact playing options, given the toss results.

CSK probable playing XI vs SRH

Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Impact Players:  Sameer Rizvi, Shardul Thakur, Shaik Rasheed, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner