PBKS vs CSK: Why Mustafizur Rahman is not playing for Chennai Super Kings Today?

Chennai Super Kings are playing a crucial encounter against Punjab Kings today (May 5) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.

This is a huge match for CSK as they will need two points to get into the IPL 2024 playoff places in the points table.

Punjab Kings won the toss and elected to bowl first against CSK. Super Kings' captain Ruturaj Gaikwad confirmed that Mustafizur Rahman is not playing in this match. The Bangladeshi pacer has been an outstanding addition for them this season but he is replaced by Mitchell Santner for this encounter.

Mustafizur has picked up 14 wickets for CSK this season. The 28-year-old has been an outstanding performer for them, and is their highest wicket-taker so far this season. And him missing the PBKS tie is a big blow for Chennai Super Kings.

PBKS vs CSK: Why Mustafizur Rahman is Not Playing Today?

Mustafizur Rahman is not in the Chennai Super Kings lineup today because the Bangladeshi pacer has gone back to his country for national duties. The Tigers are playing a T20I series against Zimbabwe ahead of the World Cup in June. Mustafizur, who was called for the national team for this series, has flown to his country to play his part in the T20 matches. Bangladesh are playing this second match of the series today and Mustafizur is likely to be a part of the team.

The pacer announced his departure with a heartfelt message a couple of days ago and thanked India legend MS Dhoni for his trust in him.

"Thanks for everything Mahi bhai. It was a special feeling to share the same dressing room with a legend like you. Thanks for keeping faith in me everytime. Appreciating your valuable tips, I will remember those things. Looking forward to meeting and playing with you again soon," Mustafizur wrote on social media.