IPL 2021: Injured Faf du Plessis trains with the team, call on his selection will be taken just before MI game

There is a hint of clouds on the selection of Faf du Plessis in the opening game of the Indian Premier League 2021 second leg in the United Arab Emirates. The South African batsman was in tremendous form during the first leg in India and was the top run-scorer for the franchise as well as the third-highest run-getter overall. 

However, during the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League 2021, Du Plessis suffered a groin injury which led him to miss three crucial matches for his team, St Lucia Kings. Among these were two knockout games, the semi-final and the final. Despite this, Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan has expressed that the final call on his fitness will only be taken just ahead of the match on September 19. 

The second leg will kick off with a match between rivals Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The CSK CEO also revealed that the South African batsman has completed his mandatory quarantine upon his arrival in the UAE and has also joined the team for a practice session. 

Robbie Uthappa in line to replace Faf du Plessis if he fails to clear fitness tests

“Faf has joined the team, he also practices after completing the mandatory quarantine and has started practicing. The final call on his fitness will be taken ahead of the match tomorrow,” Kasi Viswanathan told InsideSport Saturday. 

Despite du Plessis joining the training, CSK might be complacent in allowing him to feature in the opening match. This might just put him in danger for the rest of the season. Groin injuries can be a bit tricky at times, as it could take a week to be fine or it can also take three or four weeks. The good news for Chennai is the fact that du Plessis’ injury doesn’t look too serious and might not rule him out of the tournament, but it is important that he isn’t rushed in. 

Another good news for CSK might also be the presence of Robbie Uthappa in the squad. After joining CSK earlier this season, Uthappa hasn’t played a game. That was because Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf were given the charge. However, du Plessis’ might just give Uthappa his debut cap for the franchise.