The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) locked horns with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 22 of IPL 2024 at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to field first, looking to capitalize on what is expected to be a dew-laden surface later in the evening. Find out why Matheesha Pathirana is missing from today’s IPL 2024 clash against KKR.
Pathirana’s Absence: A Setback for CSK
While announcing the playing XI, Gaikwad revealed the absence of young Sri Lankan spinner Matheesha Pathirana. Pathirana, who impressed in his two outings this season with four wickets, continues to be hampered by a niggle that also forced him to miss the previous match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. His absence is a setback for CSK, who were hoping to utilize his spin talents on a potentially spin-friendly Chennai pitch.
However, there was positive news for CSK as well. The much-anticipated return of Bangladeshi left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman was confirmed. Mustafizur missed the previous match due to visa issues, but is now back to bolster CSK’s bowling attack. He was the leading wicket-taker for CSK in the initial matches, claiming seven wickets and sporting the Purple Cap before his absence. His return alongside experienced pacers Deepak Chahar and the in-form Mukesh Choudhary provides depth and variety to the CSK bowling unit.
Shardul Thakur Set for IPL 2024 Debut Against Former Team
Another interesting aspect of the CSK lineup is the inclusion of Shardul Thakur. The seasoned Indian pacer, who donned the KKR colours in the 2023 season, will be making his season debut in this match. Facing his former team adds an extra layer of intrigue to the contest. His experience and ability to swing the new ball could prove valuable for CSK, especially with dew expected later in the innings.
CSK will be aiming to break their two-match losing streak and return to winning ways. Skipper Gaikwad acknowledged the team’s recent struggles but expressed confidence in the group’s ability to bounce back. “We have lost by small margins. Everyone is confident in our group,” he stated after the toss. Whether CSK can overcome the setback of Pathirana’s absence and capitalize on the strengths of Mustafizur and Thakur remains to be seen. The upcoming clash promises to be an exciting contest between two of the IPL’s most decorated franchises.
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