IPL 2025: 3 Reasons Why CSK Will Target Kamindu Mendis In Mega Auction
Kamindu Mendis might be a solid pick for CSK [Screengrab/@ImTanujSingh/IPL]
The rise of Kamindu Mendis in international cricket has been exponential, to say the least. The Sri Lankan cricketer sustained his dream run in Test cricket, amassing a glorious hundred on day 2 of the ongoing match against New Zealand at Galle International Stadium.
Coming at number five, Mendis played a magnificent unbeaten knock of 182 runs, helping the hosts post a mammoth total in their first innings. The stylish left-handed batter has been in sublime form for quite a while now, and considering his all-round exploits, Mendis could be a player to watch out for in the upcoming IPL mega auction.
While the Sri Lankan batting sensation continues to grab the eyeballs, here we explain three reasons why Chennai Super Kings might consider buying him in the IPL mega auction.
Kamindu Mendis' Red-Hot Form In LPL 2024
Innings | Runs | Average/SR |
---|---|---|
9 | 286 | 40.85/157.14 |
Kamindu Mendis enjoyed stellar success in the Lanka Premier League earlier this year. The dynamic batter played a pivotal role for Kandy Falcons, amassing 286 runs, including three half-centuries, at an average of 40.85 and a blistering strike rate of 157.14.
His exceptional performance helped the Falcons reach the qualifier 2, where they succumbed to a narrow one-run defeat against the eventual champions, Jaffna Kings. As he has become a household name, his recent form might prompt the Super Kings to secure his services in the mega auction.
Kamindu Mendis: A Potential Replacement For Moeen Ali
England's renowned all-rounder Moeen Ali had an underwhelming IPL 2024 season with Chennai Super Kings. The southpaw couldn't live up to the hype, managing 128 runs at a poor average of 25.60 and a strike rate of 130. He was equally disappointing with the ball, scalping only two wickets in four innings. So, considering Moeen's poor returns, CSK might release him ahead of the mega auction.
Kamindu Mendis could be Moeen's like-for-like replacement, as he can chip in with some overs of spin besides scoring crucial runs with the bat. The Super Kings can also use him as a floater throughout their batting order, considering his ability to deal with pace and spin bowling effectively.
Kamindu Mendis: A Potent All-Round Weapon In Chennai
India's legendary keeper-batter MS Dhoni is the most influential decision-maker in CSK's leadership group. The veteran cricketer generally prefers multi-dimensional players over specialists while building the team in shorter formats.
Thus, Kamindu Mendis might be a name in Dhoni's mind, as the Lankan all-rounder has recently grabbed the limelight. He can be a valuable addition to their line-up and empower them with a quality spin option without compromising their batting depth. Furthermore, CSK would love to acquire a low-budget spin-bowling all-rounder, who has all the ingredients to emerge as their trump card on Chennai's spin-friendly surface.