Big blow to CSK ahead of RCB vs CSK Match, No Pathirana in CSK’s Initial Leg of IPL 2024
Matheesha Pathirana, the star pacer for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), will miss the first few games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. It has been reported that the fast bowler will only sign with the team after receiving the go-ahead from Sri Lanka’s medical staff.
The hamstring injury was sustained by Matheesha Pathirana during the recently finished Twenty20 international series against Bangladesh. The 21-year-old clutched his hamstring and appeared to be in excruciating pain during the second game of the series in Sylhet. Even his spell could not be finished.
"Major setback" for CSK prior to their match against RCB: No Pathirana in CSK's First Leg of IPL 2024 #CSKvsRCB #MSDhoni #ViratKohli #IPL2024 #PowerCorridors pic.twitter.com/2AqbAVIO4W
— POWER CORRIDORS (@power_corridors) March 21, 2024
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Matheesha Pathirana Shines for CSK in IPL 2023
It was then decided that Matheesha Pathirana was not fit to play in the third game of the series. Since then, the fast bowler has been receiving treatment from the physiotherapist as part of the medical staff of Sri Lanka Cricket. The pacer will not play in the IPL 2024 opening games.
The standout player for CSK in the previous league season was Matheesha Pathirana. Among bowlers who had bowled at least 90 balls during this phase of the IPL 2023, the fast bowler’s economy rate of 8.00 was the best between overs 16 and 20. Additionally, he was the top wicket-taker in the final overs, taking 18 wickets in that phase.
CSK vs RCB: Other Bowlers to watch out for
Tushar Deshpande
The medium-pacer for CSK, Tushar Deshpande, claimed 21 wickets overall in 16 games. Batsmen frequently find it difficult to handle his swing bowling. In the 2023 Indian Premier League, his best bowling stats were 45/3 with an economy of 9.92 and a strike rate of 16.23.
Ravindra Jadeja
During his IPL seasons, all-around player Ravindra Jadeja has a reputation for taking wickets at crucial moments in games. In the IPL 2023, he took 20 wickets in 16 matches, with an economy of 7.56. His 20/3 bowling figure was best.
Also Read: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s Main Man Among Three CSK Players Injured Ahead of RCB Opener
Deepak Chahar
With ten matches played and thirteen wickets overall, Deepak Chahar is renowned for his swinging white ball bowling. During the 2023 Indian Premier League, his best bowling figures were 22/3 with an economy of 8.73 and a strike rate of 15.69.
Maheesh Theekshana
Maheesh Theekshana, who took 11 wickets in 13 matches, was instrumental in helping CSK win the 2023 Indian Premier League. During the tournament, his best bowling stats were 23/2 with an economy of 8.0 and a strike rate of 26.72. There are rumors, though, that MSD may not use him in the IPL this season as a bowler. Given his impressive past performances, he is a bowler to keep an eye on.
Who among CSK would miss the opening match between CSK vs RCB
It’s not just Matheesha Pathirana, though, who CSK will be losing in the initial stage of the league. Devon Conway, who will also miss the first few games owing to a thumb injury, will not be available for them. His absence until May will create a vacuum for the starting team.
According to the reports, Shivam Dube has also been connected to the CSK team for the 2024 Indian Premier League. His availability was also under cloud since the injury occurred during the Ranji Trophy. He has since been at the NCA, but after finishing his rehabilitation, he was cleared to join the team.
On Friday, March 22, at Chepauk Stadium, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will play Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament’s opening match.
