Reports: 17-year-old Kugadas Mathulan added to CSK unit as net bowler

The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set to kick off on Friday, March 22 and with the tournament looming right around the corner, one of the biggest favourites going into the cash-rich league would be defending champions Chennai Super Kings.

Led by MS Dhoni, CSK have been one of the most consistent sides in the tournament, and they will aim to put in a similar performance once again in the IPL 2024. Ahead of the tournament, there has been an interesting development for the champion franchise.

Before the start of the competition, the CSK camp was riddled with injuries. First it was Devon Conway, followed by fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who suffered a hamstring injury. The Sri Lankan pacer was an important asset for Chennai, and the bowler could be missing early games for the side.

However, there is some good news for the five-time champions. Pathirana's fellow national Kugadas Mathulan is currently in Chennai and under observance of the key personnel of the franchise. The youngster has an action similar to that of Malinga and Pathirana, and he worked with the side as a net bowler.

It was reported that CSK skipper MS Dhoni wanted to have a look at the 17-year-old pacer, and he is being assessed by the franchise. Currently, however, it is unknown whether Mathulan will be travelling with the squad or will just be a net bowler.

CSK aim to clinch sixth IPL title

Speaking of Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2023 campaign, the 'Yellove Army' put in magnificent performances throughout the competition and managed to go all the way and clinch the title. The side finished in second place in the standings with 17 points in 14 matches, and became the first side to qualify for the summit clash, defeating Gujarat Titans once again in the final to win the title.