'He hasn't scored runs thus far but this could be his match' - Aakash Chopra backs struggling Ambati Rayudu ahead of Qualifier 1

Former Indian cricketer and well-known analyst Aakash Chopra believes that some of CSK's underperforming players would show well against Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 to secure a spot in the finals. Chopra posted a video on his YouTube channel where he lamented the shortcomings of CSK players.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be up against the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The winner of this clash will move straight into the IPL 2023 Final, which will take place on Sunday. However, the losing team will have another chance to qualify for the finals, but they will have to wait for the winner of Wednesday's eliminator match between the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians to play in Qualifier 2 on Friday.

Amongst batting, Chopra believes Rayudu would have a successful fight against Rashid Khan and it can be his day as well. Rayudu has aggregated just 122 runs at a below-par average of 15.25 in his 10 innings thus far.

"They have the depth in batting. There is no doubt about that. Ambati Rayudu hasn't scored runs thus far but this could be his match because he might play Rashid Khan well," said Chopra on his show Cricket ki Chaupal.

Ajinkya Rahane's numbers are extremely ordinary at Chepauk: Aakash Chopra

Because of the pitch, he does not see star batter Ajinkya Rahane hitting at number three. He also discussed about all-rounder Moeen Ali, who is out of form and couldn't perform like others. Ali has managed a paltry 115 runs at an underwhelming average of 16.43 in his nine innings of the 2023 season.

"One thing we have seen with Chennai's team is that they are not sending Ajinkya Rahane regularly at no.3. This pitch is not suiting him. Ajinkya Rahane's numbers are extremely ordinary at Chepauk. That is why he is moved below No. 3. They didn't get Moeen Ali to bowl in the last match and his batting is not going well. So, I see it as a minor concern," added Chopra