CSK vs KXIP IPL 2019 preview: Chennai aim to finish in top two

Chennai Super Kings have already qualified for the play-offs and the franchise has a strong chance of making it in the top two even if they lose their last league match. But Dhoni and company will want to guarantee their entry into the top two in style by winning their clash against KXIP.

On the other hand, KXIP have had another disappointing IPL season despite some high-quality individual performances. With the road to play-offs closed, the franchise will atleast want to avoid the number eight finish in the points table.

In the news: 

With the  international stars making the news for returning to their countries for preparing for the World Cup, CSK has made the news for releasing N Jagadeesan for his club game (Vijay CC).

However the questions are on the availability of MS Dhoni and it will be interesting to see how the management handles his fitness issues and workload.

#7 ready to tackle #7! Touchdown Mohali! #WhistlePodu #Yellove ?? pic.twitter.com/iXNs9CvhfZ

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 3, 2019

Form Guide:

Suresh Raina scored a fine fifty the other night to get back in form but the form of other middle-order batsmen is a worry for CSK. Their bowling has been top-class though.

Gayle and Rahul have carried KXIP in IPL 2019 but the lack of support from the middle order has hurt them. The pace bowling has been wayward too.

Once you’ve been through tough times, you can only become stronger! ?#SaddaPunjab #KXIPvKKR #VIVOIPL @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/W97ad8xE4f

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) May 4, 2019

Key Numbers:

• CSK has won 13 matches against KXIP while KXIP have won eight games against CSK.

• CSK has dominated Punjab in the recent matches. They have own five of the last six matches played against KXIP.

Also check the RR vs DC IPL match preview

Players in focus:

A fine innings of 59 runs has enabled Suresh Raina to get his mojo back in IPL 2019. However he still averages a mere 25.50 in this season of IPL and the contest against KXIP is a good opportunity for him to better his numbers.

Also check how RCB prevented SRH from entering into IPL 2019 play-offs

With an average of 52.20 and a strike rate of 129.85, KL Rahul has had a sensational IPL 2019. He has accumulated 522 runs in 13 innings so far. How many more can he add to his tally in the last league game?