CHENNAI SUPER KINGS SQUAD FOR 2018

Suresh Raina

The left-hander, with 3699 runs at an average of 34.25 and strike-rate of 139.79, is the leading run-getter for the team. His aggression will be vital if Chennai Super Kings are to eye another successful campaign as they return after a two-year gap.

Faf du Plessis

Technically astute and with solid batting credentials, the South Africa skipper will serve as an able deputy to Dhoni. Du Plessis' sheet-anchor role in the middle order will be vital to keep the team's batting order stable.

Harbhajan Singh

For Mumbai Indians, the off-spinner was their go-to bowler in the powerplay. His economy rate of 6.95 proves his ability to contain runs. With the first six overs belonging to batsmen,

Harbhajan’s accuracy and control will be an asset.

Dwayne Bravo

With the ball, the West Indies all-rounder is capable of providing breakthroughs. With the bat, he can chip in with vital contributions. Bravo's Calypso flair also makes him a fan favourite, which is why CSK used the RTM card to retain him.

Shane Watson

An integral part of Rajasthan Royals earlier, Watson, with 2372 runs at an average of 36 and 61 wickets for RR, is a utility player. With CSK looking for aggressive openers, he fits the role. Watson arrives fresh from a good showing in the BBL.

MS Dhoni

His wicket-keeping skills, death-overs batting and astute captaincy make him an asset even at 36. Dhoni’s leadership and his ability to unearth Indian talent is what sets him apart from the skippers in other franchises.