Gurjapneet in action for CSK in opener against MI: Lakshmipathy Balaji
Gurjapneet in action for CSK in opener against MI: Lakshmipathy Balaji

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.

#IPL2025 #CSKBatting #RahulTripathi #AjinkyaRahane #VijayShankar