Chennai Super Kings have retained MS Dhoni before IPL 2022 Auctions for INR 12 Cr. While that makes it certain that he will take the field in IPL 2022, it is not clear if he would continue. Of course, that would depend a lot on how IPL 2022 campaign goes for CSK and MSD. In this article, we take a look at five players CSK must target in 2022 Auctions considering MS Dhoni might retire after IPL 2022.
MS Dhoni fulfils many roles in the team such as being the wicket-keeper and the captain. While the captaincy part can be taken care of by Ravindra Jadeja, CSK must hire a wicket-keeper who can come close to MS Dhoni’s elite skills as a hitter. They will need to target that player in the upcoming auctions so that if MSD retires, there won’t be a great problem of balance for the squad for future seasons.
1) Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow is one of the players CSK must target in 2022 Auctions considering MS Dhoni might retire after IPL 2022. The Englishman will be in great demand at the auctions. However, CSK must target him. While he will be a great opening partner for Ruturaj Gaikwad, Bairstow can also keep wickets for the franchise once MS Dhoni moves on.
2) Nicholas Pooran
Nicholas Pooran is one player who can directly replace MS Dhoni in the XI once the latter retires. Although Pooran’s current form in the IPL is not great, he still is a capable player and will eventually come good in the competition. Like any franchise, CSK would also need power-hitters in the middle-order. While Jaddu is one of them, Pooran can be another option. That said, with Moeen Ali in the squad, CSK may think twice before hiring another leftie.
3) Vishnu Vinod
Vishnu Vinod is also one of the players CSK must target in 2022 Auctions considering MS Dhoni might retire after IPL 2022. The Kerala cricketer has been in top form over the years. He has added power-hitting abilities to his skills and with most of the domestic wicket-keepers likely to go for a big sum, CSK can target a player like Vishnu, who might be available for a lesser price and will only improve going forward. Vishnu has also started bowling, which will be an added bonus if there is any other wicket-keeper in the XI.
4) Prabhsimran Singh
Quality domestic wicket-keepers are rare in IPL. After MSD retires, this will be one big hole that has to be filled. Prabhsimran Singh, from Punjab, is an able candidate who can be tried out. He is an opener and is known for his aggressive intent. The Punjab cricketer can be a decent option to partner Ruturaj at the top of the order, as well.
5) Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock will be the ideal pick for CSK going forward. While there would be concerns regarding his ability to play spin at Chepauk, at other venues, QDK will be a solid investment. He will also be the perfect partner for Ruturaj Gaikwad. Being a leftie, the South African will also tick the right-left combination at the top. QDK will also bring his experience and leadership skills to the team.
