IPL 2018, playoffs: SWOT analysis of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Cliched as it might sound, the Chennai Super Kings are back in the playoffs, aiming for a dream third title to wipe out three years of being in the wilderness. MS Dhoni is at the helm, and he has done it in the past: it might seem a bit of a task with several creaking bones in the dressing room, but experience could well be the decisive factor as they try and sneak a place in the finals.
Their opponents are the Sunrisers Hyderabad, top of the table and one of the most consistent teams in the competition.
We take a look at their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats before they enter the all-important clash against the Orange Army.
Strengths
Lord Dhoni has found his touch, and how, rolling back the years as if he has a time-machine in his backyard. The team of creaking terminators might have been the butt of jokes before the league started, but have somehow prevailed, stitching together performances when they needed, and have the top-order, comprising of Ambati Rayudu and Shane Watson, who have shone as the edition has progressed.
Dhoni's experience of playing in several playoff games will hold the team in good stead, as will that of others like Harbhajan Singh and Dwayne Bravo.