Chennai Super Kings is currently sweating over the fitness of Matheesha Pathirana. If the Sri Lankan young pacer is ruled out of IPL 2024, that would be a big issue for the defending champions. Coach Stephen Fleming and captain MS Dhoni could already be drawing a list of potential replacements. It appears that Fleming is comfortable with Kiwi players and hence, it is not a surprise if he goes for a Kiwi replacement. On that note, here, we take a look at three New Zealand players CSK could target if Matheesha Pathirana gets ruled out of IPL 2024.
1) Matt Henry
Matt Henry is under-rated when it comes to the T20 format. He is good in all the phases of the game and hence, he can be a good choice for CSK.
Especially with the two bouncers in an over allowed, someone like Henry can make good use of it. Hence, he is present on this list.
2) Adam Milne
A few seasons ago, CSK hired Adam Milne. However, due to an injury, he was not able to take part in the competition. It would not be a surprise if CSK goes for him again.
CSK does not have an experienced pacer who can bowl high-end pace. Also, there are hardly any reliable hit-the-deck bowlers. Milne would fulfil both these criteria and hence, he can be a good choice.
3) Tim Southee
Tim Southee is one of the New Zealand players CSK could target if Matheesha Pathirana gets ruled out of IPL 2024. Yes, he has not had the best run in IPL recently but Southee comes in with plenty of experience.
He can also bowl in multiple phases and also delivers service with the bat. Southee is just the kind of cricketer who could succeed at CSK under MS Dhoni. Therefore, this signing must not be ruled out.
