Chennai Super Kings

                 CSK Logo

Chennai Super Kings are the most loved as well as the most hated team in the IPL - something which is synonymous with skipper, MS Dhoni. They have been the most successful team in the IPL, qualifying form the group stages in each of the 7 seasons, going on to become champions twice and thrice the runner ups.No surprise they are the most valued franchisee in the IPL and it will take a brave man betting against them not being in the top 4 at the end of the league phase.

Full Squad

                                   The biggest strength of CSK is their togetherness. The core of the squad has been in place ever since its inception, led by MSD. and with a strong Indian connection, in the likes of Raina, Jadeja, Ashwin and Mohit Sharma. Add to it Ashish Nehra who turned out to be the surprise package for them last season, becoming the leading bowler come the end of the tournament.Then there's the new addition, the forgotten man Irfan Pathan vying to make a comeback to the Indian team.Surely this is his last chance to make it big.

                                    Brendon McCullum and Dwayne Smith are easily the most destructive opening pair around, It will be interesting to see the role of Michael Hussey on his comeback to the team, though Smith's poor form of late could see the Aussie given a chance although he himself is short of match practice, Du Plessis can steady the batting as well as be destructive on his day.Dwayne Bravo is the perfect all rounder and in MSD, they have arguably the best finisher around. One area where CSK lost out last time around was with the no 7 player and that's where Pathan can play a crucial role.

                                    CSK are strong in the batting and fielding departments, but their bowling is a weak link.Quite a few teams took their bowlers for a toss and the absence of Dwayne Bravo was plain to see, especially in the death overs. Most of the bowlers tend to be on the expensive side, and if you remember the semis against Kings XI Punjab, thats what cost them a place in the final.Kyle Abbott seems to be a bargain at 30 lakhs considering his performances in the World Cup, but it remains to be seen how he copes with Indian conditions.Matt Henry is the other quickie but squad requirement means he will be overlooked for Ishwar Pandey.
                                    
                The Chepauk can prove to be a daunting venue for the opposition as the crowd are known to support their team ferociously. The palyers know the ground well and this should hold them in good shape. A strong squad led by a mentally tough MSD, its almost certain that they will qualify for the semis.
     

Schedule