The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling attack has suffered a setback with the news that Sri Lankan pace bowler Matheesha Pathirana will miss the opening stages of IPL 2024 due to a hamstring injury.
Matheesha Pathirana, who played a crucial role in CSK’s title victory last season with his death-over bowling prowess, is expected to be sidelined for at least four to five weeks.
Matheesha Pathirana injury
“He is one of our premier bowlers,” said a senior CSK official to TOI, highlighting the significance of Pathirana’s absence.
His ability to take wickets in the crucial death overs was a key factor in CSK’s success last year. This early-season blow leaves a gap in the team’s bowling attack.
Mustafizur Rahman as Potential Replacement
While Pathirana’s absence is a concern, CSK has some backup options. Senior Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman is expected to play a significant role in the initial matches.
Rahman’s Experience Could Prove Valuable
Mustafizur, known for his ability to mix pace and bowl deceptive cutters, could be well-suited to the Chepauk track, which doesn’t always offer swing for fast bowlers.
“Fizz [Mustafizur] will join the camp on March 20, a couple of days before our opener against RCB,” the CSK official confirmed. “He has the experience, and we’ll see how he shapes up.”
Focus on Death Bowling remains paramount
Despite the change in personnel, CSK’s bowling coach, Dwayne Bravo, has emphasized the team’s goal of becoming the best death-overs bowling unit in the tournament.
CSK fans will be hoping that Mustafizur Rahman can adapt quickly and fill the void left by Pathirana’s absence, at least until the star Sri Lankan pacer recovers.
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