IPL 2018: 3 reasons why CSK are persisting with Ravindra Jadeja

#2 Left-right combinations

Jadeja is the only left-handed batsman in the CSK middle-order

This reason is a long-term norm followed in the century-old history of the game. Apart from Raina, Jadeja is the only other left-hander in the playing XI. Raina is the default No.3 batsman in the squad. With Dhoni batting at No.4 in sublime form, Jadeja usually comes ahead of Bravo who is handling the role of finisher. In case of quick wickets, as in the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he will move up the order ahead of Dhoni.

A left-right combination in the crease will always be a headache for the bowlers as they are prone to err in length. In a format like T20, the margin of error is too little. Therefore, a left-right combination will always be a bonus for the batting team. This combination is the same reason why Rohit Sharma frequently changes his batting position while playing for Mumbai Indians.