Moeen Ali's leadership skill is significant for CSK squad, says Deep Dasgupta

Reigning champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings, were completely outplayed by Kolkata Knight Riders in the first match of the 2022 edition. Now, in a positive development for the Men in Yellow, their star all-rounder, Moeen Ali, is available for selection for the rest of the tournament. The Englishman played a massive role in guiding his side to glory last season with his impactful performances with both, bat and ball.

The 34-year-old amassed 357 runs at an average of 25.50, and a blistering strike rate of 137.50 in the last edition of the tournament. The veteran all-rounder earned a surprise promotion, after being sent out to the middle at the number three position. Former Indian cricketer, Deep Dasgupta believes Moeen Ali brings something more to the table, apart from his performances with the bat and ball, and that is his leadership skills.

“He (Moeen Ali) has hit the ground running as far as CSK is concerned. Last year, he came in, batted at number three. He was brilliant (referring to his strike rate of 137.50 in IPL 2021), that is something that Chennai struggled the year before, in terms of getting the momentum in the early overs,” said Deep Dasgupta on Sky247.net presents ‘Not Just Cricket Show’ on CricTracker.

“Also, with the ball, especially if you have left-handers, that makes him more dangerous as a bowler,” the former cricketer continued.

He is also a leader: Deep Dasgupta heaps praise on Moeen Ali

Deep Dasgupta believes that Ali has inherent leadership qualities, which will be of vital importance in the ongoing IPL edition. With MS Dhoni handing the captaincy over to Ravindra Jadeja, the cricket expert does not see the former Indian skipper playing all 14 games.

“The fact that he is a part of the leadership group of the English white-ball set up, so obviously he is also a leader. This season it gets more important (referring to Moeen Ali’s leadership qualities) because I do not see MS Dhoni playing all 14 games. There might be games where MS (Dhoni) might not play, and you will need the experience and calmness of Moeen Ali in his absence,” Deep Dasgupta opined.