Crime Today News
After spending two seasons on the bench, opening batsman Shaik Rasheed made his debut for Chennai Super Kings in their match against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday. In what was the franchise’s third different opening combination, Rasheed put on 52 runs for the first wicket with Rachin Ravindra, scoring an eye-catching 27 off 19 deliveries.
The decision to go with Rasheed at the top was in itself an unusual one with the franchise preferring experienced players. It has seen them receive criticism from several quarters over the years, especially over their reluctance to give opportunities to the young batsmen. Before Rasheed, their regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad too endured a similar run where he spent two seasons on the bench. In the past as well, the likes of R Sai Kishore, Baba Aparajith have all been part of the franchise without getting a game.
But with CSK struggling with just one win from 6 matches, Dhoni said they had a reason to bring Rasheed. “He batted really well. He has been with us for quite a few years. Even last year, we’ve seen improvement, but this year, he has been batting really well in the nets, both against the fast bowlers and spinners. I felt we needed to make a few changes, because we were doing the same things and getting the same results,” Dhoni said.
During his brief stay, Rasheed’s compact technique and his textbook game stood out as he largely stuck to his strength which is timing the ball. And Dhoni said it was important for Rasheed to bat to his strengths rather than trying something different. “It’s just the start. He has the capability to dominate, but with authentic shots. What’s important is for him to keep playing the shots he has in his armoury and not try to hit like some of the other openers that are floating around,” Dhoni said.
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