In a surprising move, Chennai Super Kings sent Shivam Dube up the order instead of in-form Ajinkya Rahane in their IPL match against Punjab Kings on Sunday. The decision raised many eyebrows as Rahane had been in good touch and was seen padded up in the pavilion.
It was a tactical move by CSK coach Stephen Fleming and captain MS Dhoni, who believed that Dube’s big-hitting abilities could give the team a much-needed boost. Dube, who usually bats in the middle order, was given the license to go after the Punjab Kings’ bowlers from the start.
Interestingly, the promotion of Dube also raised the possibility of Dhoni coming up the order, which has not been a common sight in recent times. Dhoni has often batted lower down the order, but his experience and big-hitting abilities make him a dangerous proposition for any opposition.
Earlier in the game –
Sikandar Raza provided the first breakthrough for his team by dismissing CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad in the 10th over of the innings. The dismissal came as a result of a brilliant stumping by wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma.
Gaikwad was dismissed for a well-made 37 off 31 balls, which included four boundaries and a six.