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Amid the gripping saga surrounding player retentions and releases by franchises ahead of the much-anticipated IPL 2024 auction, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made a strategic move by retaining Deepak Chahar. Being an integral part of the CSK unit since 2018, the all-rounder has consistently delivered stellar performances that have played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
As the anticipation for the upcoming IPL season reaches new heights, Chahar recently provided an exciting glimpse into the dynamics within the CSK camp. Sharing insights from the team meetings, he elaborated on his evolving role within the squad, expressing his enthusiasm for taking on the responsibility of leading the bowling group.
‘I have to speak in meetings’: Deepak Chahar on CSK’s team meetings
Chahar revealed that during bowlers’ meetings, he had to took on the role of the spokesperson as his teammates are generally reserved. He pointed out that Matheesha Pathirana and Tushar Deshpande are not very vocal. He further underscored that with the absence of Shardul Thakur, who used to manage everything with the speeches, coaches have encouraged him to speak up during discussions.
“In bowlers’ meetings, I am the one doing the talking as no one wants to speak. Even the coaches asked me to speak up. Pathirana speaks very less. Tushar Deshpande too speaks very little. Earlier we had Shardul, and we did not need anyone else to speak. He would manage everything. But now, I have to speak in meetings,” Chahar said in an interview with Jio Cinema.
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Deepak Chahar’s journey in the IPL
Throughout his IPL journey, Chahar has showcased his prowess in 73 matches, accumulating a remarkable tally of 72 wickets. His bowling capabilities are reflected in an average of 28.04 and an economy rate of 7.93 runs per over.
The 31-year-old’s contributions have been constant for CSK, exemplified by his instrumental role in their triumphant IPL 2021 campaign, where he secured 14 wickets in 14 matches. Such astounding display prompted the Chennai-based franchise to further secure the Agra-born cricketer’s services for a substantial Rs 14 crore in the 2022 mega-auction, attesting to his wonderful supplementation in the team’s success.
The IPL 2023 season again proved to be a good one for Chahar, where he claimed 13 wickets in 10 games, frequently providing crucial breakthroughs with the new ball, and shining in CSK’s fifth IPL title glory.
