IPL 2020: ‘Suresh Raina will comeback after missing the initial matches’

Weeks before even the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) started, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered several massive blows. Initially, 13 members including two big players of their camp tested positive for the novel coronavirus, followed by experienced players Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh pulling out of the tournament.

Losing out on a player like Raina would be a huge loss for the Chennai-based franchise. He’s not just the highest run-getter for them, but was also the vice-captain of their side. Now, it would be difficult for them to find a like-for-like replacement for the 33-year old.

Following this former cricketer turned expert, Deep Dasgupta commented that Raina might make a comeback to the ‘yellow army’. He believes that the left-handed batsman might miss the first few games of this season, but will later join the squad. Dasgupta also mentioned that he won’t be surprised if CSK doesn’t announce any replacement for Suresh Raina.

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“I have a feeling that Suresh Raina will be back playing the IPL. He might miss out on the initial few games because of the quarantine rules, but I have a feeling that Suresh will be back. Moreover, I won’t be surprised if they don’t pick a replacement for Suresh,” Dasgupta told ESPNCricinfo.

‘CSK might replace Harbhajan with Jalaj Saxena’ 

The 43-year old also commented on the withdrawal of Harbhajan Singh from this year’s IPL. Dasgupta feels that the three-time champions may opt for Jalaj Saxena as a replacement for the off-spinner.

“As far as the Bhajji’s replacement is concerned, there aren’t too many options. But I think Jalaj Saxena deserves a place, he’s a decent enough all-rounder. I think they might look at him as Jalaj is a great option to go for,” Dasgupta added.

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