IPL 2024: CSK's Four Pace Options In Absence of Deepak Chahar, Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are navigating a tough phase with significant setbacks in their bowling lineup. The team is dealing with the absences of key pacers Matheesha Pathirana and Deepak Chahar due to injuries, and Mustafizur Rahman, who is on national duty.

This leaves CSK with a depleted fast-bowling contingent as they make a push for a playoff spot in the ongoing IPL season. While Tushar Deshpande and Shardul Thakur are expected to lead the bowling line-up, myKhel takes a look at four pace bowling options in their current squad, who can fill in for the absentees.

Richard Gleeson

An experienced campaigner, Richard Gleeson has brought his skills from English county cricket to the IPL. Initially a part-time player, Gleeson's journey to professional cricket is a testament to his determination.

His capability was on full display in England's domestic circuit, and his impressive performance in the T20 Blast, where he took a five-wicket haul, led to his selection in the national team. In the IPL, Gleeson's knack for crucial breakthroughs has made him a valuable asset for CSK during this turbulent period.

Simarjeet Singh

Simarjeet Singh is a young pacer from Delhi, who has shown promise with his ability to bowl fast and swing the ball. Starting his professional career with Delhi in the domestic circuit, Simarjeet quickly made a name for himself, which eventually led to his inclusion in the IPL.

His exposure as a net bowler for the Indian team and subsequent selection for Mumbai Indians before joining CSK highlights his rising trajectory in Indian cricket. He filled in during CSK's injury-marred campaign in the past, taking four wickets in six games during IPL 2022.

Mukesh Choudhary

Another crucial pace option for CSK, Mukesh Choudhary has risen through the ranks of domestic cricket. Known for his left-arm pace, Mukesh has been effective in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

His performances for Maharashtra paved his way into the IPL, where he took the opportunity to shine in the absence of Deepak Chahar last season, proving his mettle as a reliable bowler for CSK with 16 wickets in 14 games. However, going for 27 runs in an over against SRH last month suggested he is not in the form he had in the past.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar

Rajvardhan Hangargekar is a young talent known for his pace and lower-order hitting capabilities. Hangargekar first came into the limelight during the U-19 World Cup, where his performances helped India clinch the title.

His ability to deliver quick spells and score quick runs make him an exciting prospect for CSK. Despite controversies around age-fudging allegations, Hangargekar has continued to focus on his game and contribute to his team's efforts in the IPL. He played two games for CSK last season, taking three wickets but some indiscipline bowling led to his exclusion from the line-up.

As CSK navigates through the season with these four pacers, the team will be relying heavily on their skills and adaptability to bolster their bowling attack in the absence of their key players. The blend of experience and youthful exuberance in their pace department could yet play a pivotal role in their campaign this season.