IANS Exclusive: Lakshmipathy Balaji, former India fast-bowler and JioStar IPL expert, told IANS that Rahul Tripathi is his top pick to replace Ajinkya Rahane in CSK’s batting line-up, citing his strong Chepauk record and ability to maintain strike rate at No.
3 or 4 during powerplay.
He ranks Vijay Shankar second and Deepak Hooda third, noting Hooda’s useful off-spin and impactful knocks.
Reflecting on IPL’s 18-year evolution, Balaji hailed it as a global brand akin to EPL or F1, crediting it for elevating cricket’s standards and economics—evidenced by India’s two trophies in nine months, a dream shift from bilateral series to a worldwide stage.
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