The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the most successful franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, having won the title 4 times. As the IPL 2023 season approaches, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have put together a strong squad, a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting youngsters, in their quest to capture a fifth IPL trophy.
Here is a detailed look at the CSK squad for IPL 2023
Retained Players
MS Dhoni (C, WK) – The legendary captain of CSK since the inaugural season, Dhoni will continue to lead the team’s fortunes in 2023. His sharp cricketing acumen, wicket-keeping skills and ability to finish matches remain invaluable assets.
Ravindra Jadeja (ALL) – CSK’s most expensive buy retained for Rs 16 crore. The star all-rounder can turn games with both bat and ball. He will take on more responsibility this season.
Moeen Ali (ALL) – The English all-rounder provides balance to the XI with his power-hitting and off-spin. Moeen enjoyed a stellar season in 2022, scoring 357 runs and taking 6 wickets.
Ruturaj Gaikwad – The stylish opener emerged as one of the most promising young batters last season. Ruturaj scored 635 runs in 2022 and will look to dominate attacks upfront.
Ambati Rayudu (BAT) – The experienced middle-order batsman provides solidity and composure. Rayudu scored 174 runs last season and will be keen to improve this year.
Deepak Chahar (BOW) – The skilled swing bowler has been a consistent wicket-taker for CSK over the years. If fully fit, he will spearhead their bowling attack.
Players Bought at Auction:
Ben Stokes (ALL) – The shock buy of the auction at Rs 16.25 crore. The England Test captain is one of the best all-rounders and will massively boost batting, bowling and fielding.
Ajantha Mendis (BOW) – The veteran Sri Lankan spinner was bought for Rs 2.5 crore. Mystery spinner Mendis can turn his leg-breaks and carrom balls on Chennai’s spin-friendly pitches.
Shaik Rasheed (BAT) – The promising top-order batter was bought for Rs 1 crore to provide cover in case of injuries/loss of form. Performed well for India U19s.
Nishant Sindhu (ALL) – The left-arm spinning all-rounder was bought for Rs 60 lakhs. Sindhu shone in youth cricket and provides depth in batting and spin departments.
Kyle Jamieson (BOW) – The tall New Zealand pacer known for his bounce was acquired for Rs 1 crore. Will complement Chahar with his disconcerting bounce.
Ajay Mandal (BAT) – The young talent was picked for Rs 20 lakh. Performed impressively in domestic cricket to earn an IPL deal.
Mukesh Choudhary (BOW) – The left-arm seamer was retained after a promising 2022 season. Can swing the new ball and hit hard lengths.
Simarjeet Singh (BOW) – The young right-arm quick has been retained after last season. Clocking speeds of over 140 kph, he remains one for the future.
Bhagath Varma (ALL) – Retained following an impressive display against CSK last season. The spin bowling all-rounder took 4/21 against CSK in 2022.
Matheesha Pathirana (BOW) – The exciting Sri Lankan teenager made his IPL debut last season. With a slingy action, he can get disconcerting bounce.
Overall Squad Balance:
Top Order – Gaikwad, du Plessis, Rayudu, Stokes, Rasheed
Middle Order – Jadeja, Moeen, Dhoni
All-rounders – Stokes, Jadeja, Moeen
Spinners – Mendis, Jadeja, Moeen, Sindhu, Varma
Pacers – Chahar, Choudhary, Jamieson, Simarjeet
Wicket-keeper – Dhoni
CSK have assembled a formidable squad with an excellent blend of youth and experience. The presence of Dhoni, Jadeja, Moeen, Rayudu and Chahar lends stability and know-how, while Gaikwad, Simarjeet, Sindhu and Pathirana provide exuberance.
Big buys like Ben Stokes and Ajantha Mendis add more firepower. Overall, CSK’s squad appears very well balanced on paper with batting depth, quality spinners, talented pacers and top-class all-rounders.
Under captain Dhoni’s shrewd leadership, the 4-time champions will be aiming to put behind a disappointing 2022 season. With a rejigged squad, CSK will be looking to capture the IPL trophy for a fifth time in 2023!
