The two aspects that led to Chennai's early exit in last year's edition in UAE was their insipid batting approach and the lack of effectiveness of their spinners. From 2021, they have not just addressed these concerns but also come out on the top of the pack in these two aspects.
CSK have the best scoring rate in the middle (9.44) and death overs (12.86) and have hit the most sixes (62) in the India leg of the competition. The opening pair of Faf du Plessis and Ruturaj Gaikwad have given them solid if not spectacular starts with a sensational Moeen Ali ruling the roost in the middle overs against spinners.
Ravindra Jadeja and Ambati Rayudu has given the finishing touches at the far end of the innings to propel totals past the par score.
Chennai's glory years were built on the success of their spin department and in UAE in 2020 they endured their worst season in over a decade. Despite playing all their seven games in the high scoring Mumbai and Delhi venues which offered little assistance for the spinners, the trio of Jadeja, Moeen and Imran Tahir have picked 13 wickets among them at an economy rate of 6.28, conveniently the best among all the sides.
What has not worked: The ageing guns - Dhoni and Raina. For long, these two names have been concerning to the franchise and for the fans. Having been away from international cricket for the best part of last 24 months, the most experienced CSK pair have struggled to hit the straps. Dhoni's poor form from 2020 has spilled over when the caravan moved to India where he hit only 37 runs in four outings. Raina, having missed last year's IPL, returned to CSK colours hitting a 36-ball 54 against a DC attack without the likes of Rabada and Nortje.
But form deserted him in the five innings since, scoring only 69 runs at a strike rate of 113. With Moeen taking his customary #3 slot in the lineup, he has found going tough down the order. Jadeja and Rayudu made up the lost ground somewhat with their hitting form, but CSK cannot afford to carry passengers as the tournament approaches the business end.
The 14th edition of IPL is all set to resume in UAE. First Match will be held between, Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians, 7:30 pm IST.