CSK, one of the Indian Premier League’s most dependable teams, has finished fourth five times while winning the competition four times. CSK had a difficult 2022 season and placed in the bottom half of the standings. By winning their fifth trophy, MS Dhoni and his team hope to catch up to MI, who has won the league five times.
Ben Stokes, an all-rounder and Test captain for England, was purchased by Chennai Super Kings at the IPL 2023 auction for INR 16.25 crore. That makes him the third-most expensive player in IPL history overall. The team made purchases of seven players overall.
The four-time winner concentrated on signing all-rounders. That includes Stokes, Kyle Jamieson, and the three uncapped Indian players Ajay Mandal, Bhagath Varma, and Nishant Sindhu. Ajinkya Rahane, a seasoned Indian hitter, joined the team as well.
CSK IPL 2023 Squad:
MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Mitchell Santner, Tushar Deshpande, Ravindra Jadeja, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Shaik Rasheed, Nishant Sindhu, Kyle Jamieson, Ajay Mandal, Bhagath Varma, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway, Dwaine Pretorius, and Maheesh Theekshana.
IPL 2023 Auction Highlights: Ben Stokes to CSK
Before the IPL 2023 auction, the Chennai Super Kings released their renowned all-rounder Dwayne Bravo. It was certain they would purchase one of the top players. Ben Stokes, the captain of the England Test team, was purchased by CSK for a staggering figure of Rs 16.25 crore, making him their most expensive purchase in IPL auction history. CSK did not let its fans down.
Despite significant injury worries, England’s Stokes said he would play for CSK in the IPL in 2023. Stokes’ all-around talent and leadership qualities will be a great help to CSK, who lacked the X-factor in their team the previous season.
MS Dhoni returns as the CSK captain for IPL 2023
The Chennai Super Kings will be counting on their seasoned captain MS Dhoni, who is nearing the end of his IPL career, to continue his magic. CSK will be among the favorites to win the championship in the upcoming season due to the addition of some notable players to the roster and the tournament’s return to a home-and-away format.
MS Dhoni is still active at the age of 41. Dhoni appears eager for the IPL 2023 season as he has toned up his muscles and is looking fitter than ever. Although the former India captain and World Cup champion have not mentioned hanging up his boots, it appears like the 2018 IPL season may be the last in his illustrious IPL career.
MS Dhoni announced his intention to captain CSK in the IPL 2023 at the conclusion of the IPL 2022 season. He highlighted the chance to play in front of the Chennai crowd and say goodbye to fans all over the nation as the IPL returned to a home-and-away format for the first time since 2019 following the Covid-19 pandemic.
CSK Best Predicted Playing 11 for IPL 2023
➥ Opening Batsmen: Devon Conway & Ruturaj Gaikwad
In Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, CSK has a stable opening pair. In addition to Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad has the ability to dominate any bowling attack right from the start.
➥ Middle-order: Moeen Ali, Ambati Rayudu & Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes will likely bat at number 5 or number 4 in order to stabilize the middle order, while Moeen Ali will bat at number 3. When it comes to the batting order, Ambati Rayudu can play in the middle and alternate with Ben Stokes.
➥ Lower middle order: Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni & Shivam Dube
CSK possesses a potent lower order. MS Dhoni comes in at number seven, followed by Shivam Dube as the offensive finisher at number six. The ability of MS Dhoni to plan his presence accordingly is the best aspect of this lineup. Ben Stokes and MS Dhoni can even switch places.
➥ Bowling department: Deepak Chahar, Maheesh Theekshana & Mukesh Choudhary
It is likely that Chahar will be available to play in the IPL 2023. He missed IPL 2022 due to an injury. Maheesh Theekshana will be CSK’s leading spinner, with Mukesh Choudhary supporting Deepak Chahar in the pace bowling department.
End Note
To sum up, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a balanced lineup. It puts them in the running to win the IPL 2023 championship. Its captain, MS Dhoni, is revered in the sport of cricket for his brilliance, vision, and prowess at the plate.
He has led CSK to three IPL titles and nine finals; the team would benefit much from his knowledge and experience.
Also, CSK has a passionate fan base that is popular for its unflinching support of the team. Because they create a vibrant and spirited atmosphere at their home pitch. The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, CSK enjoys an advantage over their rivals.
The team receives a warm greeting from the fans as they arrive in Chennai, which boosts their spirits and motivates them to perform well.
