Despite releasing some key players ahead of the IPL 2021 auction, Chennai Super Kings have some very well to hold onto the core of the side. The return of Suresh Raina back into the team has all the more strengthened the batting and the overall look of the team. CSK finished seventh on the points table last year which was their worst ever in the IPL history.
MS Dhoni will be leading the team in the next IPL edition once again, but this time with a totally different motivation. He would like to win the IPL title for the fourth time, pretty much like he won when the franchise made a return to the IPL post serving the two-year ban.
Though they have all the bases covered. they are in the lookout for a few key players who can possibly replace names like Shane Watson and Harbhajan Singh. They have seven spots to fill out of which, only one overseas spot. They have INR 22.9 crores in which to do so. In this article, we take a look at three players whom CSK might target in IPL 2021 auction.
Also Read: Chennai Super Kings Announce Retentions for IPL 2021
Three Players Chennai Super Kings Might Target In IPL 2021 Auction:
3. Steve Smith
With one overseas option left, Chennai Super Kings might think about roping in Steve Smith. He can be the perfect foil for MS Dhoni and together they can share the leadership responsibilities. He can also either open the innings or bat at number four after Suresh Raina.
Smith has prior experience of playing with and under Dhoni at Rising Pune Supergiants and he can be a good addition to the squad. Smith was not only dropped but also axed as captain from Rajasthan Royals.
Also Read: 3 Teams Who Can Target Steve Smith
2. Mohit Sharma
Mohit Sharma was released by Delhi Capitals in the retention window. He played for Chennai Super Kings for a few seasons before he was released in 2018. The franchise can add him back into the mix. He has played under MS Dhoni who knows how to extract the best from him.
He was not used too much by Delhi, however, at CSK he can partner Deepak Chahar from one end when required. With CSK having enough spin options, Mohit can be Harbhajan Singh’s replacement.
Also Read: IPL 2021: Gautam Gambhir Backs CSK’s Retention Policy
1. Alex Carey
Alex Carey can be seen as MS Dhoni’s potential replacement in the long run. The Australian wicketkeeper-batsman plays regularly in the Big Bash League for the Adelaide Strikers. Chennai can rope him in and groom him to become the finisher of the team after MS Dhoni who is closing in on his IPL retirement after hanging his boots in international cricket.
He is a utility batsman and can bat as per the requirement of the team. Carey was earlier released by Delhi Capitals in the retention window.
Also Read: Full List of Retained Players Ahead of IPL 2021