3 probable overseas combinations CSK can try with Maheesh Theekshana's return

The Chennai Super Kings will welcome two familiar faces back into the action as they prepare to face the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League 2023. Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana of Sri Lanka have joined the squad after completing their international duties and are expected to be available for selection. In this article, we will look at the overseas combinations that CSK could use when Maheesh Theekshana returns in IPL 2023.

#3 With Ben Stokes as an opener, Maheesh Theekshana replaces Devon Conway

Maheesh Theekshana and Devon Conway (Source: Twitter)

Devon Conway plays spin bowling exceptionally well, but he is vulnerable to swing and seam, particularly early in his innings. The Kiwi may be a luxury CSK cannot afford, as fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has a very similar playing style.

The Super Kings went all out for Ben Stokes at the IPL 2023 auction, and the Englishman is most effective at the top of the order. Dropping Conway in favour of Theekshana would allow CSK to open the innings with Stokes, allowing them to get the most out of him.

#2 Maheesh Theekshana replaces Ben Stokes

Maheesh Theekshana and Ben Stokes (Source: Twitter)

Stokes is currently recovering from a toe injury, but CSK may be fine without him. While this is unlikely, given Stokes' exorbitant price tag, Chennai's ideal starting XI may not include him.

CSK could play Mitchell Santner, Moeen Ali, Theekshana and Conway without Stokes at home and on spin-friendly surfaces. In the away matches, if the conditions favour speed, they could trade one of the spin-bowling all-rounders for Dwaine Pretorius or Sisanda Magala.

#1 Maheesh Theekshana replaces Mitchell Santner

Maheesh Theekshana and Mitchell Santner (Source: Twitter)

Mitchell Santner has been outstanding so far in IPL 2023, but Ravindra Jadeja's improved bowling performances in the last game may mean that CSK can play without two left-arm spinners. Theekshana, Conway, Stokes, and Moeen Ali could form a deadly overseas core.

In this case, the Super Kings will have a well-balanced squad, eliminating the need for different teams at home and away. When all of their overseas stars are available for selection, this appears to be the most likely option, though Santner hasn't done anything wrong for him being dropped.