CSK need a finisher like Salman Nizar: Ex-Kerala captain Sony Cheruvathur bats for talented Kerala player

Former Kerala cricketer Sony Cheruvathur has weighed in on Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) latest roster decision, expressing concerns over the franchise's reluctance to try out promising Kerala batter Salman Nizar.

The Kerala batter was called up for a trial by CSK last week and stayed with the team for a couple of days.

In an exclusive chat with MyKhel, Cheruvathur acknowledged CSK's historically conservative approach to team selections, but suggested that this season presents an opportunity and perhaps a need for a shift in philosophy.

"Ideally, they should be trying out a few guys, just in case. Usually, that's how CSK go about their business- they're not the ones for constant chopping and changing," Cheruvathur remarked, indicating that while continuity has been CSK's core strength, the current scenario demands flexibility.

However, with the departure of a key player like Gaikwad, the former Kerala all-rounder believes it's time the team injects fresh energy into the team, particularly with players who can contribute strongly in the field and adapt quickly to pressure situations.

"This time, it feels like they need some fresh legs. At least to be good in the fielding, at least," he added.

Cheruvathur pointed out the presence of promising domestic talent like Shaik Rasheed and Andre Siddarth already in the CSK setup, but questioned the lack of opportunities being handed out to proven domestic finishers like Salman Nizar.

"Right now, they are not in a phase to just try someone out. They are looking to have somebody who can finish games. Salman has done that for a long time. It makes good sense if they can get somebody like Salman into the system."

Nizar is one of the promising talents from Kerala and is destined to reach loftier heights. CSK also called up Mumbai youngster Ayush Mhatre, and are now on the verge of finalising him as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad for the remainder of IPL 2025.

As Ayush Mhatre prepares to step into the limelight with one of IPL's most iconic teams, Nizar continues to wait on the wings, but it looks like the road can only get better for him in the coming days.