IPL 2023: “CSK could have given Rajvardhan Hangargekar the new ball”, Manoj Tiwary

Chennai Super Kings’ young pacer Rajvardhan Hangargekar impressed everyone with his wicket-taking ability in the IPL 2023 opening game against Gujarat Titans. Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary believes CSK should have given the new ball to young Rajvardhan Hangargekar as he showed full commitment while bowling.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar was picked by the CSK franchise in the mega auction ahead of the IPL 2022. However, the young pacer didn’t get a single game for the yellow brigade in the previous edition of the Indian Premier League.

Hangargekar finally made his debut in the game against Gujarat Titans and made an instant impact. The CSK pacer recorded figures of 3 for 36 and was the standout pacer for them in a game where CSK didn’t have much positives.

“I was surprised when they gave the impact substitute Tushar Deshpande the new ball. In domestic cricket, he often bowls in the latter phases of the game. I thought maybe they could have given Rajvardhan Hangargekar the new ball,” Manoj Tiwary said on Cricbuzz.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar’s economy shouldn’t be looked at: Manoj Tiwary

“Hangargekar’s economy shouldn’t be looked at as he picked up some crucial wickets. As a fast bowler, you need to give your complete commitment and that was seen in the way he bowled. It’s good to see such talents being unearthed and he will only get better, ” Tiwary pointed out Rajvardhan Hangargekar.

It’s worth noting that while Hangargekar took three important wickets for his side, he also leaked 36 runs in his four overs. His economic rate was a concern for the MS Dhoni-led side as he allowed the opposing batters to score freely.

CSK’s key pacer Mukesh Choudhary has been ruled out of the entire IPL 2023. He was the main wicket-taker with the new ball for the Chennai-based franchise in IPL 2022. CSK will now look at Rajvardhan Hangargekar to perform the same role for them.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar has till now played 13 List A games in which he has taken 25 wickets. He has also played 9 T20 matches for his state where he has scalped 8 wickets. The young pacer was pretty impressive for the India Under-19 team as well which clearly shows he can do the job for CSK if given enough opportunities.