'They could have slight problems' - Aakash Chopra on possibility of Matheesha Pathirana missing IPL start

In a recent twist of fate, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Gujarat Titans find themselves facing uncertainties ahead of IPL 2024. Renowned cricket analyst Aakash Chopra shed light on potential challenges for both teams, adding a layer of suspense to the upcoming season.

Chopra expressed concern about CSK's key player, Matheesha Pathirana, who played a pivotal role as their specialist death bowler in IPL 2023. Pathirana's recent hamstring injury has cast doubt on his availability for the early matches of the tournament.

"Pathirana has gotten injured. There is no clarity on his availability but will Chennai Super Kings have a problem because of his injury? They could have slight problems because Pathirana is their main death bowler," Chopra said in a candid YouTube video.

While acknowledging the presence of alternative death-bowling options in Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar, Chopra emphasised the potential impact of missing Pathirana's unique skills.

"However, they have got Shardul Thakur now and Deepak Chahar was already there. They got Maheesh Theekshana to bowl a lot in the death overs but they could feel Matheesha Pathirana's absence a little," Chopra observed.

I don't think GT will miss Wade that much at the start:  Chopra

In another development, Chopra highlighted the absence of Matthew Wade from the Gujarat Titans' initial two games in IPL 2024. Wade, engaged in a Sheffield Shield match, has received permission to join the team later. Chopra, however, downplayed the impact of Wade's absence on the IPL 2022 champions.

"Matthew Wade will not be available for the initial matches. He is playing a Sheffield Shield match and the Gujarat Titans have also given him permission to come late. Would he have got a chance to play at the start? I don't think they will miss him that much at the start."

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"He might have got as well because if Hardik is not there, you see Kane Williamson and David Miller as overseas batters, and then suddenly you feel whether you are lacking something, and if you can play Matthew Wade. I don't think they will miss him that much at the start," he noted.

Chopra suggested that the Titans have adequate replacements, with Wriddhiman Saha as the wicketkeeper-batter and the possible inclusion of Robin Minz. However, uncertainties linger over Minz's availability following a recent bike accident.