IPL 2020 preview: CSK to bank on MS Dhoni for a super season

CSK would be eyeing their record-equalling fourth IPL title this season. This would be the 11th season in a row for CSK to be led by MS Dhoni.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the most celebrated teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), mostly owing to the fact that it is led by legendary former Indian skipper MS Dhoni. Having won the title on three occasions, they would leave no stones unturned to win it for the record fourth time, a feat currently held by defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI).

Interestingly, Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket last month, as he is set to dedicate his services entirely to CSK. Also, being free of the burden of international cricket, critics believe that he, along with CSK, would have the best of season. In the same light, let us analyse the side ahead of their 11th season.

Consistency is the key: In case you wonder, CSK are the only side in IPL history to have qualified for the playoffs every season they have featured in. Furthermore, they have been the runners-up on most occasions (5), having lost to MI on three occasions. This level of consistency certainly proves that CSK would be more than willing to go to any level to not just qualify for the playoffs, but win it all.

Players to watch out- Dhoni: Undoubtedly, the skipper is the first man to watch out, as not just his smart batting, but his sound leadership skills would play an equally important role in CSK's success this season. Furthermore, without the pressure of international cricket, he would be free to experiment with himself and play the way he likes, making him dangerous than ever.

Imran Tahir: The charismatic leg-spinner from South Africa is not just known for his unique celebration, but also his deadly spin. Furthermore, with the tournament being held in UAE and the tracks being known to assist spinners, Tahir would be even more lethal. Moreover, the larger grounds are sure to make life tough for the batsmen.

Ravindra Jadeja: Continuing on the lines of success of the spinners, Ravindra Jadeja, too, is one such man who is being tipped to have success with the ball. Known to provide breakthroughs when needed the most, Jadeja would be fancying his chances this season. Additionally, being an all-rounder, he could always come in handy with the bat, especially as a finisher, alongside Dhoni.

Squad: MS Dhoni (c & wk), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Piyush Chawla, Dwayne Bravo, Sam Curran, Karn Sharma, Shane Watson, Shardul Thakur, Ambati Rayudu, Harbhajan Singh, Murali Vijay, Josh Hazlewood, Francois Du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, KM Asif, Narayan Jagadeesan (wk), Monu Kumar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, R Sai Kishore.

2020 prediction: CSK are certain qualifiers for the playoffs. However, the absence of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh could be a tough void to fill, while over-reliance on Dhoni could derail their campaign.