Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL
A big update has come from the CSK camp. They have finally signed a replacement for Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier pulled out of the tournament. It is his compatriot Jason Behrendorff, who has been called up by MS Dhoni-led CSK. The 30-year-old has featured in 11 ODIs and seven T20Is so far, with CSK being his second IPL franchise after Mumbai Indians whom he represented in the 2019 edition. In 5 IPL matches so far, the left-arm speedster has five wickets. CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against the Delhi Capitals on Saturday at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
Behrendorff won't be available for first two games
Although Behrendorff will replace compatriot Hazlewood after the latter pulled out days prior to the start of the tournament, he will not be available for selection for the first two matches owing to the mandatory quarantine requirements. In addition, South Africa's Lungi Ngidi also won't feature in their first match for sure after joining the team late owing to his international commitments. This suggests that the MS Dhoni led side may feature both Sam Curran and Dwayne Bravo in their XI at least for the first game.
Pant vs Dhoni- who will have the last laugh?
CSK's opening clash against DC is being touted as a battle between a teacher and his disciple. While Dhoni is the master wicketkeeper captain as well as the leading finisher, this will be Pant's first game months after liberating himself from the shadow of Dhoni through impactful performances across formats. A thrilling game awaits us this Saturday from Mumbai.