'Rachin Ravindra Will...' -Aakash Chopra Predicts CSK Eleven for RCB game

Ravindra will open with CSK captain Gaikwad (x.com)Ravindra will open with CSK captain Gaikwad (x.com)

Cricket Analyst Aakash Chopra has forecasted the potential starting eleven for CSK in the IPL opener against RCB at Chepauk.

In a bold move ahead of the IPL 2024 season opener, CSK appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain, replacing the iconic MS Dhoni. The stage was set for a thrilling clash against Faf du Plessis' RCB at Chepauk stadium. Cricket analyst Aakash Chopra, renowned for his insightful predictions, weighed in on the potential starting eleven for the revamped CSK squad.

With Pathirana sidelined, Chopra envisioned an all-Indian seam attack, with Theekshana as the sole overseas bowler. Moeen Ali, Daryll Mitchell, and Rachin Ravindra were earmarked for the remaining overseas player slots, offering a balanced lineup.

Chopra's batting order prediction placed Rachin Ravindra alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad at the top, followed by Ajinkya Rahane and Daryll Mitchell, with Shivam Dube adding firepower. With Conway absent, Ravindra was slated to open the innings, lending depth to the CSK batting lineup.

"Rachin Ravindra will open alongside Ruturaj. Ajinkya Rahane at No. 3, Daryl Mitchell at No. 4, and then Shivam Dube. After that, you will say whether you need Moeen Ali there. You might need him as (Matheesha) Pathirana is not there and which other overseas options are available?" Chopra speculated.

As the innings progressed, the batting order would see the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni followed by the capable batsmen Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur. Chopra also highlighted Sameer Rizvi's potential as an impactful player for the team.


CSK's potential strategy versus RCB

Chopra's analysis delved deeper into CSK's strategy, emphasizing the importance of a slow track at MA Chidambaram stadium. Recognizing RCB's vulnerability against genuine spinners, particularly beyond Maxwell, Chopra believed that a spin-heavy approach could tilt the game in CSK's favor.

With anticipation building for the IPL opener, Chopra's insights added another layer of excitement, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown between two cricketing giants.