Deepak Chahar likely to be on the side-lines for an extended period, Ben Stokes out for a week | IPL 2023
Xtra Time Web Desk: In what comes as a big setback for four times IPL champions Chennai Super Kings, two of their premier all-rounders Deepak Chahar and Ben Stokes will be out of action for a while in ongoing IPL 2023. Deepak Chahar will be facing an extended period on the side-lines after picking up a suspected hamstring injury in the first over of the clash against Mumbai Indians. Chahar, who was signed by CSK by INR 14 crore, had missed the entire 2022 season due to a back injury.
CSK's other big-money recruit, Ben Stokes, is also likely to be out for a week with an ankle injury. The England Test captain did not play in the game against Mumbai Indians and is unlikely to feature in the home game against Rajasthan Royals on April 12, with a possibility of returning for the away fixture against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 17.
The absence of Chahar and Stokes will be a blow to Chennai Super Kings. Both players were expected to play key roles for the team, and their injuries will require the team management to reassess their plans and make necessary adjustments to their playing XI. It remains to be seen how long Chahar and Stokes will be sidelined and how their absence will impact CSK's performance in the tournament.
