IPL 2019, CSK vs KXIP: 4 overseas players CSK might pick in the playing XI

Chennai Super Kings are scheduled to face Kings XI Punjab at Chepauk on 6th April 2019. CSK got their first defeat of the tournament at the hands of the Mumbai Indians in their previous encounter. After the unexpected loss, CSK would surely look forward to regaining some momentum. For that, they need to tackle the Punjab-based franchise.

Defeating KXIP is a lot easier said than done. Kings XI shouldn't be underestimated as they gave a tough fight against CSK in the previous season, even winning one game against them. Under Mike Hesson's coaching, the team would definitely show a complete level of brilliance in the match.

Sam Curran's final over bowling was impressive during the previous game against DC. As CSK is a much bigger threat the team would fire on all cylinders during Saturday. Thus, CSK needs to put up a very sturdy side comprising the best local and overseas players.

On that note, these four overseas talents would be a perfect fit for CSK in that match against KXIP. Let us have a look at them.

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#4 Imran Tahir

Imran Tahir (Picture courtesy: BCCI/IPLT20.COM )

Chennai's Purple Cap holder Imran Tahir should not be omitted in the next match against KXIP. He is having quite a season this time around. It is still unknown whether he would leave halfway through the tournament for World Cup training.

As far as he is available, CSK would only be happy to utilize the veteran to his maximum. Considering his age, this might likely be the last IPL season for Imran Tahir. The team respects talent regardless of their age so they would want the season to be special for him.

The pitch at Chepauk favoured Tahir's leg-spin so far in the season. He scalped 5 wickets in the two matches played at Chepauk thus far. Expect some wizardry from the South African leg spinner against Kings XI Punjab.

#3 Scott Kuggelejin

Scott Kuggelejin

Dwayne Bravo won't be playing against Kings XI Punjab as he experienced a hamstring injury while playing against Mumbai Indians. David Willey is absent from the side indefinitely due to personal issues so CSK's new player Kuggelejin might be joining in.

The New Zealand all-rounder was picked by CSK as a replacement player for Lungi Ngidi. Bravo's injury might be a blessing in disguise for Chennai if Kuggelejin proves to be exceptional. To be honest, no one knows what to expect from the newcomer.

Very few in the IPL might have played against Kuggelejin, leave alone KXIP. Kuggelejin has 200+ first-class wickets. In T20 competitions, he has notched 67 wickets so far. He is also a decent at batting. From all angles, the 27-year-old look like an ideal replacement for Bravo.

Even if Bravo gets fit enough to play in the last minute, CSK should not miss the opportunity to test Kuggeleijin's capacity in the IPL. The veteran would also need some rest for a while as he should be preserved for the latter stages of the tournament.

#2 Shane Watson

Shane Watson (Picture courtesy: BCCI/IPLT20.COM)

Shane Watson did not play well in the previous match against Mumbai Indians. He scored just 5 runs in the match and got dismissed by Lasith Malinga. In spite of being underwhelming in the last match and in the tournament so far, Watson might be given another opportunity.

Watson received the 'player of the match' award for his 44 runs against Delhi Capitals. Additionally, his impressive Big Bash and PSL performances would also be considered by the Chennai franchise.

Just one or two disappointing performances won't make the Yellow Army pull the plug on Watson. He earned their long-lasting trust by scoring a century in the 2018 finals against SRH. Also, Watson was the second highest run-getter for them in that season.

A string of inconsistent performances might affect him in the near future but as of now, it looks likely that he will be given many opportunities. Thus, expect Watto to be featured in the playing XI against Kings XI Punjab.

#1 Faf du Plessis

Faf du Plessis (Picture courtesy: BCCI/IPLT20.COM)

It is not completely certain that Ambati Rayudu will be picked in the playing XI. He was largely underwhelming in the series so far. Expectations are high on him to deliver but he had just scored 34 runs in the last 4 games.

It looks like the pressure had drained this World Cup probable. Thus, it would be advisable for him to take rest for a few matches. Rayudu can make use of the time out to work on his techniques a bit and analyse what went wrong.

In the meantime, du Plessis can walk into the playing XI. The South African captain may not be available for the entire duration of the series. He might be leaving halfway through the tournament for World Cup training.

Thus, it would be fit to use him now. Back in 2016, Plessis scored 67 runs against Kings XI when he was part of the Pune Supergiants. Although Punjab setup had changed considerably it would still be a good morale boost for CSK to have him.