Chennai Super Kings could be in for some decisive changes ahead of next season.MS Dhoni confirmed that he would be part of IPL 2021 and hence, there would be no problem for the next campaign. However, the franchise must understand that it is the right time to invest in a new captaincy candidate so that the player can collaborate with MSD for at least one campaign.
While there are plenty of candidates in the market for this slot, CSK also have a couple of options on their roster. On that note, here are the eight options that we think the franchise must target to replace MSD at the helm after 2021.
1. Kane Williamson
There are already plenty of discussions going on regarding this on social media. Kane Williamson is arguably the best option to replace MSD at CSK. A brilliant batsman, the Kiwi is a calm-head and a wonderful captain, just like Dhoni. However, prising him out of SRH would be a big task. That said, if there is a mega-auction, David Warner and Rashid Khan could be retained ahead of Kane, thereby allowing CSK to pounce on the player.
2. Faf du Plessis
At least for two or three more seasons, it might not be a bad idea for CSK to hand over the captaincy duties to Faf du Plessis. The South African has captained teams before, and he also knows the CSK team very well. If the franchise makes this move, they can instead focus on improving the other areas of the squad at the auctions.
3. Ravichandran Ashwin
Bringing back Ravichandran Ashwin in the yellow jersey is a realistic possibility. Delhi may not retain him, and if he does come into the auctions, CSK must go hard for the Tamil Nadu player. Ashwin has led KXIP before, and would not be a bad option to lead CSK. Moreover, he is a local player, and the fans would be thrilled to bits if he were to be made the captain of the franchise.
4. Suresh Raina
Although he didn’t play in 2020, Suresh Raina is still a crucial part of CSK. If not for his absence in this edition, his name would have been at the top of the list to succeed MSD. Raina is a natural leader and has led Gujarat Lions for two seasons. He knows the intricacies of the job and is a respected figure in the franchise. Moreover, he has the approval of MSD, and that must suffice to take up the role. For the fans too, seeing their ‘Chinna Thala’ take over the captaincy duties might be the most fulfilling option.
5. Ravindra Jadeja
Well, we won’t be surprised if you are shocked by this option. However, for a guy who is second to none in terms of importance in the CSK line-up, the captaincy should not be far away. Also, Jaddu is a terrific cricketer who is constantly improving his skills. With him, the team gets a new look and maybe, a fresh start to an era.
6. Manish Pandey
There are plenty of reasons why CSK must target Manish Pandey as one of the captaincy candidates. Firstly, and most importantly, the team needs a solid new-age Indian middle-order batsman. That was lacking in 2020, and hence, lethargy affected the squad. Manish is also a proven captain, having led Karnataka to multiple trophies in the domestic circuit. There is a chance that SRH might not retain him, and if that happens, there is no reason why CSK must not look to buy him.
7. Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane is one of the most underutilized cricketers of IPL 2020. He almost didn’t play for the Capitals in the first half of the tournament, and most probably, the franchise could release him. CSK must target him if that happens. Ajinkya has experience in this role and being India’s vice-captain in the Test Format, there is merit too. Moreover, CSK could also want a calm-headed batsman who can anchor an innings like Ajinkya at the top of the order. With so many perks, Ajinkya seems fit for the role of a captain at CSK.
8.Dinesh Karthik
One cricketer every CSK fan would want to see in their franchise is Dinesh Karthik. A Chennai boy, DK has often proclaimed his love for CSK. With him at the final stages of his career, it could well be possible that his wish might come true. KKR would surely not retain him if there is a mega-auction owing to his age. Hence, CSK could buy him for cheap and give him the captaincy duties. He is experienced in the job, and could actually do well with it. At least until a younger leader is found, DK can help make the transition period smooth.
