IPL 2023: “CSK should reach the playoffs if they play to their potential”, Aakash Chopra

CSK will start their IPL 2023 campaign against Defending Champions Gujarat Titans on March 31 in Ahmedabad which is also the opening game of this edition. Former Indian batter Aakash Chopra reckons MS Dhoni-led CSK franchise should reach the playoffs if they play to their potential as the squad looks decent on paper.

CSK had a horrific IPL 2022 season where they lost 10 out of their 14 games and were placed at the number 9 position on the points table. Chennai Super Kings will be roaring to make a comeback this year.

“They are looking like a very decent team on paper. Where can this team reach? They should reach the playoffs if they play to their potential. Dhoni is the captain, there is an emotional connect, it is the last season, and the matches are going to be played in Chennai, which is their fortress,” Aakash Chopra said on his show ‘AakashVani’ on JioCinema.

Chennai is defined by all-rounders: Aakash Chopra

“If we talk about all-rounders – Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner and Ben Stokes in bold letters, and then two or three more Indian names,” the former Indian opener pointed.

As mentioned by Aakash Chopra, CSK have got plenty of all-rounders. While having multiple all-rounders is always considered to be a great option but the Impact Player rule in IPL 2023 can reduce the value of all-rounders.

Ben Stokes, who’s arguably the best all-rounder in World Cricket at this point of time will provide the necessary strength to the CSK squad. Stokes was bought for INR 16.25 crores in the IPL 2023 auction and can provide flexibility to CSK’s batting order.

Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali have been good both with the bat and ball and will look to do the same in IPL 2023. The presence of so many all-rounders in the playing XI will help CSK to have 7-8 bowling options in each game.

Deepak Chahar who was their most expensive buy in the IPL 2022 mega auction is back into their squad as well. Chahar was ruled out of the entire season last year due to an injury. Deepak Chahar too can contribute with the bat whenever needed.