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'You Will Need Him Here' - Aakash Chopra Believes This All-Rounder Will Be Crucial For CSK vs LSG

image-lh7fmwioMoeen Ali to be a key player against LSG [AP Photos]

Former Indian cricketer turned commentator, Aakash Chopra, has identified England all-rounder Moeen Ali as a key player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Wednesday at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. 

With CSK's spin-bowling prowess and LSG's struggles on turning tracks, the match promises to be an intriguing contest.

Chopra emphasized Moeen Ali's significance for the Chennai-based franchise, regardless of whether they bat first or second or play on a black or red-soil surface. He noted that the 34-year-old's contributions with both bat and ball would be invaluable on the expansive Lucknow ground, particularly given LSG's left-handed batsmen.

"You will need Moeen Ali here, whether you bat first or second, or whether it is a black or red-soil surface. You can expect slightly better batting from him and his bowling will work here because the ground is huge and there are three left-handers in the opposition team - Kyle Mayers, Nicholas Pooran and Krunal Pandya,” said Chopra in a YouTube video on his channel.

In addition to Moeen, the renowned commentator identified Shivam Dube as another essential player for CSK. He also highlighted the inconsistent away form of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, two of CSK's key batters, who have struggled to replicate their home performances away from familiar conditions.

"Shivam Dube will be an important player. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway's performances at home have been very good but their performances plummet when they go away from home. They have an average of 20-odd away from home. At home, they are like a pair, but it becomes slightly 50-50 when they go away from home," added the erstwhile opener.

Chopra further highlighted that CSK, who started the season on a high note, have suffered setbacks in their last two games. However, he opined that the four-time IPL champions have the edge over LSG in terms of individual players' abilities.