3 reasons why CSK must play Moeen Ali in IPL 2024 clash vs LSG
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been one of the most consistent franchises in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), and they are off to an impressive start in the 17th edition of the tournament. They are occupying the third spot in the points table with four wins in six games.
The five-time IPL champions will square off against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 34th match of IPL 2024 on Friday (April 19). The conditions in Lucknow might benefit the spinners and the yellow army might end up tinkering with their combination.
The foreign pace duo of Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana have done a terrific job for CSK so far and have been two of their most consistent wicket-takers. However, with spin-friendly conditions likely to be on offer in Lucknow, CSK might be tempted to bring in a spin option.
Moeen Ali, whom CSK bought in the 2021 auction, could come into the picture if they consider changing their combination. He has been one of the premier English players in the white ball format and could make a difference if given a chance.
Let us now have a look at three reasons why CSK must play Moeen Ali in their clash against LSG:
# 1. Moeen Ali provides an ideal balance to the squad
Given his all-round attributes, Moeen Ali tends to lend a perfect balance to whichever side he is playing for. Not only is he a gun batter but could be effective with the ball in conditions favorable for spinners.
What makes him special is that Moeen can bat anywhere in the line-up and chip in with four overs. On a surface that offers help to the spinners, Moeen can dismantle any batting line-up and destroy any bowling attack on his day. Besides, he is a brilliant slip fielder providing stability in all three departments.
# 2. Spin-friendly conditions in Lucknow will benefit Moeen Ali
The surface at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has assisted all types of spinners in the competition so far. Krunal Pandya was brilliant with the ball against the Gujarat Titans while Ravi Bishnoi has consistently bowled well on the surface.
Moeen can be used as an option in the powerplay and the middle overs. The conditions will not only suit Moeen as a bowler but also as a batter. He is someone who can tear apart any spinner on his day which can make a huge difference in Lucknow.
# 1. Moeen Ali is an out-and-out team player
One of the most underrated white ball cricketers to have emerged from England, Moeen Ali is an out-and-out team man who is always happy to take up extra responsibility. If you need him at the top of the order, Moeen will try to provide a flying start in the powerplay.
If Moeen is needed in the middle order, he can play the waiting game if wickets are falling around or can accelerate if the platform is laid. He can also be used as a finisher which he has done for England and the different franchises he has played for. With conditions favoring him as a perfect match-up, CSK should include him in the playing XI against Lucknow.