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The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction is scheduled for December 19 in Dubai, with a staggering 1166 players registering for the bidding extravaganza. Among the 10 franchises, all eyes are on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), boasting a robust purse of INR 31.4 crore, as they aim to strengthen their squad.
CSK’s quest for Ambati Rayudu’s replacement
A significant concern for CSK is finding a fitting replacement for the retired Ambati Rayudu, who bid farewell after IPL 2023. Numerous names have been thrown into the hat by experts and fans alike. Offering his insight, CSK’s former star Ravichandran Ashwin recently disclosed his pick for Rayudu’s replacement.
Ravichandran Ashwin reveals his pick
Contrary to popular suggestions favouring Shahrukh Khan, Ashwin believed that CSK will set their sights on Karun Nair during the upcoming auction. Ashwin contends that Shahrukh isn’t a suitable replacement at No.4 and points out Nair’s impressive record in the domestic circuit as a key factor.
“I have a feeling that they will invest it on Karun Nair. They are searching for a replacement for Ambati Rayudu. Shahrukh is not a replacement for him at No.4,” remarked Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
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CSK’s preference for experience
Ashwin further elaborated on CSK’s historical approach, highlighting their tendency to opt for experienced players over unknown talents. According to him, Nair fits the bill due to his proven track record, dismissing the possibility of CSK selecting an inexperienced player.
“They have never played anybody who just did well in their first season of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. So Karun Nair, folks, brace yourself to see him in yellow. I am not committing to anything, just doing a little Ravi Shastri impression,” added Ashwin.
Ashwin emphasized Nair’s ability to play spin, citing his Test Match triple century against England in Chennai. He compared Nair favorably to Manish Pandey, noting that Nair’s proficiency in handling spin, especially at the Chepauk track, makes him an ideal candidate for the No.4 slot.
“He is somebody who can play spin well, who could sweep and reverse sweep. MS Dhoni loves it when there is a batter who can play between the top order and the middle order in the No.4 slot, especially in Chennai. I feel Karun Nair is perfect for that. I haven’t really seen Manish Pandey play spin too much in Chennai, but Karun Nair, remember, has a triple hundred in a Test match played in Chennai,” explained Ashwin.
