Five reasons why Chennai Super Kings can win IPL 2019
What's the story
The venue and schedule of 2019 Indian Premier League will be announced soon. This time around, the tournament might be held outside India, due to Lok Sabha Elections. Over the years in the cash-rich league, a few teams have dominated the proceedings. And Chennai Super Kings have been the most consistent side. Here're five reasons why the 11th edition winners can defend the title.
Reason 1
CSK have the most versatile squad
CSK have a talented pool of versatile players, who can make their presence felt irrespective of which position and circumstance they find themselves in. Their list of match-winning players is quite remarkable. The MS Dhoni-led side boasts of players like Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Faf du Plessis and Shane Watson to name a few. These names are an example of the versatility on offer.
Reason 2
A strong opening combination will aid CSK
CSK have a great opening combination. Watson and Rayudu amassed a total of 1,157 runs in IPL 11. They form a dream pair and understand each other well. Further, Faf has attributes of an opener. He can also come in the middle order and get the runs flowing. His match-winning knock of 67* against SRH in the IPL 2018 Qualifier was terrific.
Reason 3
Experienced players know what they are expected to do
CSK have a team that boasts of players with T20 pedigree. The senior players have fit in well and know what they are expected to do. Players like Suresh Raina, Dwayne Bravo and Dhoni have been the pillars of this unit. Their decision-making is sharp. These big guns often get the job done in difficult situations and are agile between the wickets.
Reason 4
CSK's bowling looks strong and composed
The bowling unit of CSK looks strong and composed. The fast bowling unit has what it takes to make an impact in T20Is. Lungi Ngidi provides the spark and has wicket-taking prowess. The crop of Indian pacers have the ability to stop runs. The spin options are strong. Harbhajan Singh, Imran Tahir, Mitchell Santner and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja are renowned names in the format.
Reason 5
MSD's leadership qualities are well known
CSK's leader MSD knows the side in and out and his success rate in the IPL is incomparable. Dhoni's calmness in tense situations is a real positive quality. He understands the format like no other cricketer and knows what's required to help his side win matches. He is respected all around. Dhoni can still be that finisher CSK need to seal the pivotal moments.