After spending two seasons on the bench, after opening batsman Sheikh Rashid, he made his debut for Chennai Super Kings in his match against Lucknow Super Kings on Monday. In the third different inaugural combination of the franchise, Rashid scored 52 runs for the first wicket with Rachin Ravindra, scoring 27 runs in 19 delivery.
The decision to go with Rashid at the top was an unusual in itself in which the franchise preferred experienced players. This has criticized him with many quarters over the years, especially on his reluctance to give opportunity to young batsmen. Prior to Rashid, his regular captain Ruturaj Gikwad also endured a similar run, where he spent two sessions on the bench. In the past, R Sai Kishore’s choice, Baba Aparajith has all been part of the franchise without receiving a game.
But CSK was struggling with only one win out of 6 matches, Dhoni said that he has a reason to bring Rashid. “He really batted well. He has been with us for a few years. Last year, we have seen reforms, but this year, he is really batting well in the nets against both fast bowlers and spinners.
During his brief stay, Rashid’s compact technique and his textbook game stood out because he was largely stuck to his strength that is giving time to the ball. And Dhoni said that instead of trying to do something different for Rashid, it was important to bat for his strength. Dhoni said, “This is just the beginning. He has the ability to dominate, but with authentic shots. The shots for him is important to play in his arsenal and do not try to hit like some other openers who are floating around,” Dhoni said.
