Mumbai: If one looks at the team combination of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), all controversies and scams will retreat. The yellow jersey has been flying high since the first edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). Even after eight years, they still remain the team to beat.
With inclusion of stars like Brendon McCullum and Faf du Plessis, the unit has emerged stronger. But not all the success would have been possible had it not been for captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s demeanour on and off the pitch. The 2011 World Cup winner for Team India is also extremely popular down south.
But Dhoni fans are surrounded across India and are not only limited to Chennai and Ranchi – Captain Cool’s hometown. Compared to other teams, CSK has the strongest fan base.
Nonetheless, the team reached the final in 2008 but lost to Shane Warne-led Rajasthan Royals.
But since then, Dhoni and his boys have reached the final four more times and won two out of them.
They remained champions for two consecutive years (2010 and 2011). CSK beat Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the respective years. In 2012 and 2013, they were the runners up and in 2014, they secured third place.
The team also has the star Indian spin duo Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.
UNDERDOGS
Ishwar Pandey: The youngster has variations as well as pace to rattle the opponents. He could be a player to watch out for.
(Photo: AFP)
Irfan Pathan: The curly-haired youngster turned heads when he first appeared. The Indian Sultan of swing – hungry for a national call-up – could be the bowler for CSK this season.
(Photo: AFP)
