Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) streak of playing a playoff game every time they took part in the tournament came to halt in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. One of the under-performing teams in 2020, CSK also stayed at the last spot during the season and finished their tourney at the 7th spot with just six wins. CSK would look to target a few players in the upcoming IPL 2021 auctions which is all set to commence in February. Ahead of the IPL 2021 auction, we have a look at 3 players that CSK might target:

1) Steve Smith:

S.Smith started the IPL 2020 season with a couple of fifties but lost his rhythm as the tournament progressed. RR finished at last in the points table in IPL 2020. However, when the classy batsman landed on his home soil, he was seen in his usual rhythm as he scored back-to-back tons against India. His record in IPL is sensational to say the least. In line with all his records and his experience at the international level, Chennai might show interest in him. A brilliant batter like him can be a great deal for any franchise on any given day and will add to CSK’s value if they pick him.

2) Krishnappa Gowtham:

 

K.Gowtham has been around in the domestic circuit for quite a while now. Often compared with the Turbanator Harbhajan Singh, Gowtham played for Rajasthan Royals in 2018 for a hefty amount. He was then traded to Kings XI Punjab in 2020 and had a lukewarm IPL 2020. Considering his skills he could be a valuable asset at CSK. His bowling would suit the surface at Cheapauk and his incredible hitting ability could be really handy for the men in Yellow.

3) Dawid Malan:

 

The ICC no1 T20I batsman in the world will be the franchise’s first choice in the upcoming IPL 2021 auctions despite having not played IPL ever. The T20 specialist has never been part of IPL but has plied his trade in numerous T20 leagues around the world. For now, the English batsman has been part of 19 T20Is with 855 runs in his bag at a stunning average of 53.43. He can definitely be a great asset to CSK lot if they decide to pick him up in the auction. CSK might even need to loosen their purse a bit to get in touch with such a brilliant batter.

By Arvind Krishnan

Cricket writer, statistician and analyst. An unorthodox media student, marketing runs in his blood. Sports Marketer and analyst.