Chennai Super Kings are likely to revamp their squad for IPL 2022. Hence, the IPL 2022 Mega Auction will be extremely important for them. They should plan the auction such that the core of the team would be set up for at least five more years.
MS Dhoni may not play in IPL 2022. If that does happen, CSK should also find players who can be captaincy contenders. Other players such as Suresh Raina, Dwayne Bravo, Imran Tahir and Ambati Rayudu may also not be retained. Hence, CSK must ensure a productive auction.
1. Kane Williamson – If SRH releases him for IPL 2022 Mega Auction
SRH could have a difficult time deciding its retainment list. Hence, if they release Kane Williamson, CSK must go big for the Kiwi. In terms of captaincy and character, Kane is similar to MSD. He is also a top batsman and can make the No.3 position his own for a very long time. Therefore, CSK must target the New Zealand captain.
2. T Natarajan
It has been a while since CSK has had a Tamil Nadu cricketer a consistent part of the XI. T Natarajan can fill that gap. He is a quality fast-bowler who is just starting out in his international career. Moreover, he knows the Chepauk track very well, something that can help him be at his best.
3. Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow is just the kind of cricketer who would fit in well at a franchise like CSK. Much like Mathew Hayden, Bairstow is a fearless batsman and more often than not, he ensures a quick start during the powerplay. He can also keep wickets, an attribute that can help CSK if MS Dhoni will not be part of IPL 2022.
4. Suryakumar Yadav – A top target in IPL 2022 Mega Auction
Assuming CSK would not retain MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina and Ambati Rayudu, they would have to pick some strong domestic batsmen at the auctions. Suryakumar Yadav may not be retained by Mumbai and CSK must poach for the talented cricketer if that happens. He can play at either No.3 or No.4 in the XI.
5. Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar can be the future of CSK. In Chennai, he will be helpful with his off-spin. He can also be a good batsman in the future. Moreover, he brings in this energy which CSK could benefit a lot from. It is too early to predict but he can be a solid option to lead the franchise after a couple of seasons.
6. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada can help CSK have a settled bowling line-up for years to come. While yorkers are his strength, the South African has also got other variations. He will be the suitable pick to replace Dwayne Bravo at CSK. The bowling attack can be planned around the pacer.
7. Shahrukh Khan
Shahrukh Khan belongs to the breed of T20 power-hitters like Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard. However, the Tamil Nadu man can also read the game well, as seen in recent games. With MSD likely to opt-out, Shahrukh can be a decent replacement as a batsman. He still has a long way to go but there is definitely potential in him.
