When R Ashwin rejoined Chennai Super Kings for the 18th season, the supporters and cricket experts called it a masterstroke. However, the returns have been ordinary despite the team spending INR 9.75 crore. In 7 matches, he has taken just 5 wickets at an average of 44.60 and at an economy of 9.29. His spin partner Ravindra Jadeja has dismissed just 5 batters in eight games at an average of 33.20 and an economy rate of 8.66.
In the batting department, Jadeja and Ashwin have amassed 145 and 12 runs, respectively.
Suresh Raina highlighted the performance of the two senior players. “There is a lack of belief. The team didn’t had a good auction and the current players don’t want to win matches. There is no intent. Ravindra Jadeja is bowling fast while R Ashwin is bowling a lot of carrom balls. Pathirana is coming late to bowl. Chennai will have to do something different,” he said.
CSK have won two out of eight matches and are 10th in the points table. Their regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered a season-ending elbow injury, and the team management had to request MS Dhoni to lead the side in nine matches of the 18th season. Even the legendary wicketkeeper hasn’t been impressive as a skipper. Chennai have won just 1 out of the three contests he has led so far. They will have to win the next six games to stand a chance to make it to the playoffs.
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