The last few months have not been great for Devon Conway. While he struggled after the initial top start in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he is not scoring runs in the other formats, as well. Although CSK can use the likes of Moeen Ali as an opener, they might need a genuine option as a backup, as well. On that note, here, we take a look at three players whom CSK must target as the backup for Devon Conway.
1) Kusal Mendis
Kusal Mendis is one under-rated player in T20 cricket right now. He has been doing well for Sri Lanka for the past few years now. Even in some T20 leagues, the top-order player has performed to his best.
Being a more genuine wicket-keeping option, Mendis would make sense as a backup. Even if Ajinkya Rahane has a bad run, Kusal can come in at No.3. Therefore, there are many reasons why Kusal can get a chance in CSK.
2) Steve Smith
Steve Smith is one of the players whom CSK must target as the backup for Devon Conway. It won’t be a surprise if CSK does go after Steve Smith. He is likely to come cheap and if Steve Smith finds form, there is sure to be a season in which he can score more than 500 runs.
At the moment, even for Australia, Steve Smith plays as an opener in the T20I format. He is a fine player of spin, as well. CSK will need some more experience and Steve can provide that.
3) Ibrahim Zadran
Ibrahim Zadran has been doing well for Afghanistan in recent times. He is one player who deserves an opportunity to play in the IPL.
CSK usually does not pick such players. However, they must have an eye on the future, as well. Hence, as a backup, they could actually target the Afghan.
