Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) former batter Ambati Rayudu has advised a major change in the lineup for the clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Rayudu wants Ruturaj Gaikwad to include their new overseas recruit Akeal Hosein in the side and backed him to trouble RCB openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. He also picked all four overseas players who can bolster their chances to register their first win of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
"If Dewald Brevis comes in, he could add a lot of value. Akeal Hosein should definitely play, along with Jamie Overton and Noor Ahmad. I think those four would make for a very strong combination," Rayudu said on ESPNcricinfo.
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"Akeal can be effective against both Virat Kohli and Phil Salt at the start of the innings, while Overton and Noor can control things through the middle overs, alongside someone like Anshul Kamboj or Mukesh Choudhary.
"CSK certainly have the resources, they just need to get the combination right. If they do that, they're still very much in with a strong chance," Rayudu added.
CSK’s overseas players’ form
32-year-old Hosein made his SA20 debut for Jo'burg Super Kings, CSK owner's franchise in the South African T20 league. The left-arm spinner claimed seven wickets at an average of 31.85. However, his economy rate of 7.68 runs per over was effective.
There is a question mark over Dewald Brevis’ fitness. His addition is set to bolster the middle order. When he returns, he is likely to walk in to bat at no.4 which will give CSK enough depth.
Jamie Overton made an impact in CSK’s opening clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Overton registered a 36-ball 43, rescuing CSK from a batting collapse. He conceded 14 runs one over. He was benched for the clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS).
CSK's left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad has been wicketless. From two overs, he conceded 24 runs. He bowled his quota of four overs against PBKS and conceded 38 runs.
However, it would mean that Matt Henry sits on the bench. Henry has been among wickets but has leaked boundaries.