MS Dhoni is likely to lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the afternoon game against Delhi Capitals if skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad fails to recover from his elbow injury in time.
Gaikwad sustained the injury during CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati last Sunday, when he stepped out to Tushar Deshpande in the second over and missed the ball, which struck his unprotected elbow. Despite the setback, the CSK captain showed great resilience, scoring a valiant 63 off 44 balls in their unsuccessful chase of 183.
Hussey underlines Gaikwad’s injury concern
CSK’s batting coach, Michael Hussey, confirmed that there is uncertainty regarding Gaikwad’s participation in the afternoon game at Chepauk and hinted that CSK may turn to their former skipper to lead the side against Delhi Capitals.
“Ruturaj Gaikwad’s participation in tomorrow’s game will depend on how well he recovered. He is still sore and we would take a call as to how he bats in the nets today. If he doesn’t play, not sure who will lead. But there is a strong chance that a young wicketkeeper might fill in,” said Michael Hussey during the pre-match press conference on match eve.
If Gaikwad is ruled out, it would be a huge blow for the five-time champions. Gaikwad has been their top scorer this season, and with several CSK batters struggling for form and the team having lost two out of three games, CSK could find themselves in a challenging situation.
While Dhoni is likely to step in as captain, it’s expected that Devon Conway will come into the top order, with Jamie Overton making way for him. CSK may also consider fielding Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, or Kamlesh Nagarkoti.