On April 27, Thursday, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will compete against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Having won five out of their seven games, CSK is currently leading the IPL 2023 points table and aims to maintain its top spot.
In contrast, RR holds the third position and aims to win over the table toppers, whom they defeated in their first encounter this season.
Before the match, Murali Kartik, a former Indian spinner, suggested that CSK might choose to replace Maheesh Theekshana with Mitchell Santner.
Additionally, Kartik complimented Matheesha Pathirana, a young seamer, for his effective death bowling. He also commended CSK captain MS Dhoni for his leadership and stated that Pathirana is following his captain’s instructions like a remote control, executing them perfectly.
According to Kartik’s recent statement to Cricbuzz, if at all, Mitchell Santner may replace Theekshana. He also mentioned that Pathirana, who performs well in death overs, is developing nicely under the leadership of MS Dhoni. Kartik further added that Dhoni utilizes Pathirana like a remote control, and the bowler executes his captain’s instructions perfectly. Therefore, Kartik does not recommend replacing Pathirana.
“Mitchell Santner could replace Theekshana if he does at all. Pathirana is a seam bowler, he bowls really well in death overs. He’s emerging really well under MS Dhoni. Dhoni uses him like a remote control, and Pathirana does what Dhoni wants. So, I won’t replace Pathirana,” said the former spin bowler.
Kartik also noted that seam bowling is a vulnerability for the four-time IPL champions. He praised the performance of young bowler Akash Singh, who has been impressive in the ongoing season.
Kartik acknowledged that Santner is an exceptional batter among bowlers and bowls well against any opposition in any condition. He also highlighted Santner’s excellent fielding skills and his brilliant arm movement. Thus, Kartik suggested that there is a strong argument for Santner’s inclusion in the team. However, he admitted that Dhoni has a different perspective and approach to the game.