Chennai Super Kings’ key death bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, will be sidelined for the initial stages of IPL 2024 due to a hamstring injury. Pathirana, who sustained the injury during a T20I against Bangladesh, is expected to be out for at least two weeks and will join CSK after receiving clearance from the Sri Lanka Cricket medical staff. With the T20 World Cup following closely after the IPL, SLC is taking precautions to manage Pathirana’s recovery carefully.
Concerns for CSK
Pathirana’s absence adds to CSK’s injury concerns, with New Zealand opener Devon Conway also sidelined until May due to a thumb injury. Pathirana was a key performer for CSK in IPL 2023, boasting the best economy rate and leading wicket-taker in the death overs. His absence might open up a spot for Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman, who has recovered from cramps and is available for CSK’s opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22.
CSK also has the option to include Moeen Ali, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, or Maheesh Theekshana based on the pitch conditions. Dwayne Bravo, CSK’s bowling coach, emphasized the importance of death bowling and expressed confidence in their bowling depth, especially with the return of Shardul Thakur.
Meanwhile, CSK’s spin-hitter Shivam Dube, who missed the Ranji Trophy knockouts due to injury, has joined the squad after completing his rehab at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
CSK, the defending champions, will kick off their IPL 2024 campaign with matches against Royal Challengers Bangalore and Gujarat Titans on March 22 and March 26, respectively.
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