IPL 2018: CSK's strongest playing XI for the playoffs

Pacers

#9 Deepak Chahar

Chahar is back to full fitness

Deepak Chahar has been CSK's most impressive bowler of the season. Dhoni has used Chahar in the powerplays and he has troubled batsmen with his swing. He has taken 7 wickets in the tournament so far and has been CSK's most economical bowler with a fantastic economy of 7.29 runs per over. Chahar suffered a hamstring injury in the match against Mumbai Indians but made a good comeback against Sunrisers Hyderabad, thus eliminating all concerns regarding his form and fitness.

#10 Shardul Thakur

Thakur is CSK's leading wicket-taker this season

Shardul Thakur came into the IPL on the back of some good performances in the domestic circuit. He was also part of India's squad on the tours of South Africa and Sri Lanka. The Mumbai pacer has done reasonably well for CSK this year and has been majorly used by Dhoni in the death overs. Even though Thakur's economy, 8.85 runs per over, has been on the higher side, he has been able to take wickets and is CSK's leading wicket-taker of the tournament with 11 wickets.

#11 Lungi Ngidi

CSK might look to include Ngidi in the playing XI to solve their bowling woes

Lungi Ngidi was forced to miss the start of the tournament following his father's demise but he has looked sharp in the 3 matches that he has played since. Despite that, he was dropped in favour of David Willey. With Willey unable to make an impact, CSK might go back to Ngidi once the playoffs begin. The South African pace sensation has the ability to provide crucial breakthroughs and add much-needed strength to CSK's weak bowling attack.