|| CF DESK ||

Former New Zealand and Mumbai Indians bowler Mitchell McClenaghan believes Mustafizur Rahman’s bowling at the Chepauk pitch will be crucial for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

McClenaghan acknowledged that Chennai will opt not to risk the injury-prone Matheesha Pathirana and instead rely on Mustafiz. He thinks that the pitch will suit Mustafiz's cutter well and his playing chances in the upcoming match will be high.

Mustafizur's outstanding performance, achieving his career-best figures 4-29-4, was instrumental in securing a six-wicket victory for the defending champions at CSK's home ground.

His exceptional performance rightfully earned him the title of Player of the Match, for helping the team clinch a six-wicket win against RCB.

“I don't think so; Although it depends on the type of wicket to be played on. I think Mustafizur will be crucial for Chennai. Perhaps some were worried about what would happen at the death over as Pathirana is not there. But Mustafizur was exceptional in the first match. It looked like Mustafiz found his old form under Tom Moody's Sunrisers 5-6 years ago (8 years). It has been a great thing for Chennai,” said Mitchell McClenaghan to Cricinfo.

CSK will play their second game against Gujarat Titans on March 26.