Both the Chennai Super Kings and the Mumbai Indians have had such bad seasons that their playoff chances appeared to be over even before they met this season. MI are now officially out of the race, leaving CSK with the slimmest of mathematical chances.
However, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was ruled out for the same reason, which may have dealt a blow to the team. Jadeja hasn’t been at his best with the ball or bat this season, but he is still an important part of the team. He had also missed the previous match, but the M S Dhoni-led side will take heart from their 91-run win over the Delhi Capitals in their last outing and hope the batters can build on their outstanding performance.
Devon Conway, the opening batsman, has hit three consecutive half centuries. With his whirlwind 87, he tore apart the Delhi Capitals attack and will need to provide an aggressive start alongside fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has found form as well but can be more consistent. The last time these two sides met, Dhoni, dubbed “the best finisher,” sealed the game on the final ball.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway are the starters.
Shivam Dube, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu (middle order)
MS Dhoni and Moeen Ali are two heavy hitters.
Moeen Ali, Maheesh Theekshana, Maheesh Theekshana
Dwayne Bravo, Simarjeet Singh, and Mukesh Chaudhary set the pace.
MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Simarjeet Singh, Mukesh Chaudhary, Maheesh Theekshana, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Shivam Dube, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Simarjeet Singh, Mukesh Chaudhary, Maheesh Theeks
Changes in the playing XI: CSK are known for trying to avoid making as many changes as possible, so it’s unlikely that they’ll make any changes after their dominant win in their last match.
