Massive blow to CSK, MS Dhoni's go-to bowler to miss start of IPL 2024, know the reason here

Matheesha Pathirana to miss start of IPL 2024: MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a colossal setback ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season as their star pacer Matheesha Pathirana will miss the initial matches due to a hamstring injury, as reported by ESPNCricinfo

The 21-year-old Sri Lankan fast bowler picked up the injury during the second T20I against Bangladesh earlier this month. The injury forced him to leave the field midway through his bowling spell and he also missed the subsequent T20I match. Pathirana is currently undergoing rehabilitation under the supervision of the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) physiotherapist. He is expected to join the CSK squad only after getting a green light from SLC's medical team. This comes as another blow to CSK, who are already dealing with the absence of New Zealand opener Devon Conway. Conway will be sidelined until May due to a thumb injury.

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Pathirana's absence, a big setback for CSK

Pathirana's absence is a significant concern for CSK.  He was a crucial part of their bowling attack last season, especially during the death overs (overs 16-20). In fact, he had the best economy rate (8.00) among bowlers who bowled at least 90 balls in that phase of IPL 2023.  He was also the leading wicket-taker during the death overs, picking up 18 wickets in 12 innings.

While Pathirana's injury is a blow, it could create an opportunity for Bangladesh's left-arm seamer Mustafizur Rahman.  Similar to Pathirana, Mustafizur is known for his skills in the crucial death overs.  Although Mustafizur had a recent scare with cramps in an ODI against Sri Lanka, he has since recovered and is ready to play in the IPL opener for CSK against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22.

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The pitch at Chepauk, CSK's home ground, is a factor to consider. If it's a pitch that favours spin bowling, CSK might opt for Moeen Ali instead of Mustafizur.  This would give them a strong spin attack with Moeen Ali joining forces with  Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Maheesh Theekshana.

The importance of strong death bowling has been emphasized by CSK's bowling coach, Dwayne Bravo. Shardul Thakur, who is back with CSK after two seasons, is another option they can consider to fill the void left by Pathirana's absence.

However to balance it out CSK's designatted all-rounder Shivam Dube has finally rejoined the team to bolster the five-time champions ahead of IPL 2024 opener. Notably, Dube missed the crucial Ranji Trophy knockouts due to an injury but has completed his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and is now ready to contribute to CSK's title defense. Dhoni-led CSK will take on Faf Du Plessis' Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL 2024's opener on March 22 at MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Here is the full IPL 2024 schedule for CSK

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