IPL 2018: 3 important players for CSK in qualifier 1 against the Sunrisers

After 56 exciting games, we have finally arrived at the most important phase of the tournament. The next 4 games will decide the winner of the 11th edition of Indian Premier League.

With 9 wins from 14 games, Chennai Super Kings finished second in the league table. They will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the qualifier one on Tuesday, at the Wankhede stadium.

MS Dhoni’s side has played some excellent cricket over the course of last 6 weeks and twice defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the league stage.

Sunrisers Hyderabad are one of the best bowling units in IPL 2018 and it is going to be a cracker of a contest at Mumbai.

On that note, let’s take a look at the 3 CSK players who holds the key to their success against SRH in qualifier 1.

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#3 Deepak Chahar

Chahar has been a revelation in IPL 2018

The Rajasthan medium pacer is one of the best new ball bowlers in the tournament. Deepak Chahar came into this year's IPL after a stunning Syed Mushtaq Ali tournament 2017/18, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker.

The 25-year-old was exceptional for Chennai Super Kings in the league stage. He bowled most of his overs in the power play and was brilliant with the new ball. In 10 games this season, Chahar has picked up 9 wickets at a stunning economy rate of 7.35.

He swung the new ball and was consistent with his line and length. He bowled at good pace and kept the batsmen quiet in the power play overs. He holds the key against the likes of Shikhar Dhawan and Kane Williamson. Getting their wickets early is important for CSK and Dhoni will rely on Chahar to do the job for him.

#2 Suresh Raina

Raina's form key to CSK's fortunes

Suresh Raina, one of IPL’s all-time best batsmen, is the leading run-getter in playoffs. In 17 playoff games, Raina has scored 636 runs at an average of 52 and a strike rate of 168. He was instrumental for CSK in their two title wins.

With four fifties from 13 games, the 31-year-old has already scored almost 400 runs in the tournament. He scored a brilliant 61* in CSK’s last league game against KXIP, and is in good form at the moment.

Dhoni will expect his star batsman to shine against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Sunrisers Hyderabad have some excellent bowlers in their ranks and Raina will have to hold the fort for CSK. Runs from him will be crucial for CSK’s fortunes in the qualifier one.

#1 MS Dhoni

Dhoni is in great form this season

Dhoni is one of the most successful batsmen in the IPL when it comes to playoff games. With 397 runs from 17 playoff games at an average of 44 and a strike rate of 140, the Super Kings captain is the second highest run-getter in IPL playoffs.

2018 is his second-best IPL season in terms of the run scored. Dhoni has scored 446 runs this season at an average of 89.20, and a strike rate of 157. He was exceptional in the death overs and showed why he is one of the best finishers in the world.

He is batting up the order in IPL 2018 and is in stunning form right now. The 36-year-old is a big match player and the IPL playoff is a huge occasion. His ability to play well under pressure could be crucial for CSK’s success.