IPL 2020: 4 players who can lead Chennai Super Kings in MS Dhoni’s absence

‘Captain Cool’ MS Dhoni missed three consecutive matches for Chennai Super Kings during 2010 IPL due to an elbow injury that ruled him out for ten days- against Delhi Daredevils (away), Kings XI Punjab (home) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (home).

Since then, the world’s most successful skipper played 121 IPL games consecutively for the Chennai-based outfit before missing out from two fixtures last year- against Sunrisers Hyderabad (away) due to back spasms and against Mumbai Indians (home) due to fever.

MS Dhoni missing an IPL game is a rare instance given the 38-year-old’s fitness level and it was surprising to witness the Ranchi-man missing two games in a single season. Though the CSK skipper who was last seen in action during 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand might be super-fit going into 2020 IPL, we need to consider the age factor also. He might or might not make it to 2020 T20 World Cup, but the mere prospect of seeing him on the field after eight long months will be a sight to cherish.

But at 38, he is not getting any younger and needs to take good care of his body during 2020 IPL. The fans would be hoping that he stays injury-free and plays all matches for CSK this season. But we can’t predict the circumstances as he might miss games due to injuries or other reasons just like he did in 2019 IPL.

On that note, let us look at four players who can lead CSK in MS Dhoni’s absence:

4. Dwayne Bravo

The former West Indies skipper has been one of the vital cogs in Chennai Super Kings’ line-up ever since joining the franchise ahead of the season four after his three-year stint with Mumbai Indians (2008-2010). One of the most vibrant all-rounders, Bravo who is known for his explosive batting has won the IPL Purple Cap for the highest wicket-taker twice (2013 and 2015).

The 36-year-old who has played for several teams in various T20 leagues across the globe has 1483 runs and 147 wickets to his name in the IPL. Bravo who led Trinibago Knight Riders to their third Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title in 2018 might be in line to lead CSK in case of regular skipper Dhoni’s absence from the XI given his vast T20 cricket experience over the years.

The Santa Cruz-born all-rounder enjoys immense popularity in the IPL and especially his connect with the Chennai franchise and the Chepauk crowd is at another level. The fans love his cool celebrations and dance moves as much as they enjoy his game. If the situation demands, Bravo would be ready to lead Chennai Super Kings considering it as yet another opportunity to prove his love for brand ‘CSK’.