CSK can never get discounted in the IPL with the presence of MS Dhoni: Irfan Pathan

The most relishing and celebrated sports festival is about, to begin with, the eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just around the corner. The opening encounter of IPL 2018 which is scheduled on April 7 would be a contest between two strong heavyweight teams, Chennai Super Kings will be going up against the defending champions of the tournament, Mumbai Indians.

Both these teams have had quite a seasoned competitive rivalry since the first season of the global T20 league in 2008. Veteran Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes that this year teams like Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad and also the Kings XI Punjab have composed a strong squad, but he also stated that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can never be ruled out of chances in the IPL.

CSK’s success this year depends on the performance of their experienced hands: Pathan

CSK would be returning to the IPL after a long gap of 2 years and they would be looking to bring the similar energy and intense sportsmanship with them, which they displayed in the previous seasons. They retained three of their most experienced campaigners in skipper MS Dhoni, premier T20 batsman Suresh Raina and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for the upcoming season. Then at the auctions, they picked out the right set of players who would be contribution with their highest abilities to win the third IPL title for CSK, this year.

Pathan mentioned that even if the other franchises look a stronger unit on paper, MS Dhoni’s CSK can never be discounted in this intense competition. The left-arm pacer noted that the experienced players in the CSK team will have step up their games to provide a spectacular season for their franchise. He also added that Dhoni’s experienced mind would be very crucial guidance for the team in their chances of winning the IPL 2018.

“I think Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, and Kings XI Punjab look very strong on paper and they have put together good squads, however, one cannot discount Chennai Super Kings ever. They have a wonderful captain (MS Dhoni) and they also assembled a very experienced squad (in the auction). Their fortunes will depend upon how fit and agile these experienced hands are, but other than that, I think they will do well,” said Pathan in an exclusive conversation with Cricketnext.