“MS Dhoni astutely used him” – Suresh Raina wants Shardul Thakur back in CSK

Former Indian and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cricketer Suresh Raina has advocated for the return of all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the franchise during the IPL 2024 auction. Raina expressed his belief that Thakur was not utilized effectively by his IPL 2023 team, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and suggested that the player could thrive once again under the captaincy of MS Dhoni.

Raina said “He is very similar to Pat Cummins. He has done well in the bowling department as well as with the bat. KKR, I don’t think used him in that manner. When he played for CSK, he has done really well. He brought a lot of quality with the older ball as well as the new ball. (Deepak) Chahar is a bit injury-prone, and (Matheesha) Pathirana also is. He is an all-rounder like Deepak Chahar,” Suresh Raina said during Jio Cinema’s mock IPL auction on Monday. He (Shardul) understands the CSK administration, he understands the leadership. And MS astutely used him well. I think he is (can be) an important buy. I think, like Abhinav Mukund said, he is a very important Indian bowler. And his form will be crucial,

Shardul Thakur had previously played four seasons with CSK from 2018 to 2021, contributing significantly to their success with two IPL titles.

Over the course of 48 matches, Thakur showcased his bowling prowess by securing 55 wickets at an impressive average of 27.52. His standout performance occurred in 2021, where he claimed 21 wickets, establishing himself as a key wicket-taker for the team.