Chennai Super Kings suffered a defeat in their first game against Gujarat Titans. They would now look to make a comeback. The team will be playing at its home in the Chepauk Stadium. Unfortunately, they will not have the services of Maheesh Theekshana for this encounter. Here, we take a look at the reason why Maheesh Theekshana is not playing for CSK against LSG.
Maheesh Theekshana is not playing for CSK against LSG
The off-spinner is currently playing for Sri Lanka against New Zealand in the T20I series. He is doing well and Sri Lanka will need him to be a part of the squad. Interestingly, while New Zealand has given NOC to its lead players, Sri Lanka has not done that.
Currently, even for Sri Lanka, Theekshana is an important cricketer. He can bowl at various phases of an inning and more often than not does the job for the team. CSK fans will expect the same from the youngster in IPL 2023.
Tough bowler to replace
Currently, the best combination to go ahead with will be to have Mitchell Santner in the setup. The experienced Kiwi is a good left-arm spinner and will also add value with the bat in the lower order. Therefore, he is important for the team until Theekshana returns.
Moeen Ali will have to be the lead right-arm off-spinner till then. The English all-rounder has the knack for breaking partnerships and could be in action in the middle-overs, especially against the likes of Nicholas Pooran. CSK will also have to decide on the perfect Impact Substitute. It was this decision that failed them against GT. If the team is batting first, a spinner like Prashant Solanki would also be a decent option to come in. If CSK is bowling first, someone like Ajinkya Rahane could be given a chance to show his form.
