Can Ben Stokes be the answer to CSK's questions?

Ben Stokes (Source: AP Newsroom)

Back in 2017, there wasn't enough evidence on how a relatively new English all-rounder would perform in one of the toughest leagues in world cricket- The Indian Premier League. Also, the all-rounder didn't had a great time when he was in the subcontinent last time around. Everyone knew he had potential but who had the idea that he would be the most expensive player that year? Yeah, you could have already guessed that if you knew it is Ben Stokes.

When the world's best T20 side, England wanted him to be part of their successful T20 World Cup campaign in Australia despite his absence from the format lately, you know he is big, and there is a reason they call him the Big Ben.

Not just in T20s, Stokes has been instrumental in making the world dance to his tunes in Test cricket which is the reason why they are best in the longest format too. Although he doesn't play ODI anymore, I don't think I need to remind you about his impact on the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

Fast forward to the 2023 IPL auction, Ben, on expected lines, bettered his 2017 price tag by ₹1.75 Cr which just cleared that he is still very much tempting for the franchises. And knowing it is Chennai Super Kings, you might also have a sheepish smile, if you're a fan.

Those who have been following MS Dhoni will say that he would any day prefer experience over just raw talent. There's a reason why CSK is called the 'daddies army'.

The story behind the scene

MS Dhoni in CSK (Source: BCCI/IPL)

None of the players MS brings in are without some context, whether it was Shane Watson in the fade end of his career or Imran Tahir or even Ashish Nehra, the influence of experience has always been there in the Chepauk. The only concern remains with their fitness which he covers up with his other energetic young brigade stars.

In that very respect, the New Zealand-born is young and, of course, at the peak of his career, but the question is how many years can CSK see in him?

At the very best, 7 or maybe 8 years, but can he survive through the rigours of Test cricket all these years and still come back in yellow? The answer might be a little concerning, but if he is willing, he can stay here all his career, just like MS has done. So, if he decides to play a part in the transition at this historic franchise, he could well be the one who is taking decisions in 2028 as well.

Remember, Super Kings need a leader, too, while they could either go the Ruturaj Gaikwad route or even follow Moeen Ali, the chances of Ben Stokes putting his hand up for the prized role is quite high as well. The reason is his credentials have been decent when he is allowed to present himself as the chief.

The old-forged fire

Ben Stokes in RPS (Source: BCCI/IPL)

2017 was no ordinary. MS Dhoni was not leading his side for the first time in IPL history. Ben Stokes was in the IPL, and GST (Goods and Services Tax) was implemented for the first time.

Both the stalwarts were on the same side, playing for the Sanjiv Goenka-owned Rising Pune Supergiant under another stalwart, Steve Smith, who was blooming as a T20 star. The camaraderie between the trio was thought to be a little tensed, which, fortunately, wasn't the case. They gelled well and were brilliant together to surprise many.

But one standout was the Stokes-Dhoni duo, who had this fantastic affinity with mutual respect. And it won't be astonishing this time around as well.

Meanwhile, Stokes along with a Kiwi coach. I think we have seen that before. Have we?

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