Laxman Sivaramakrishnan says Sam Curran can bat at number 3 for CSK team

IPL 2020 is just about to start in a few days, but there have been a few controversies around the league already. First, Chennai Super Kings’ two players and a few support staff members tested positive for COVID-19, and then Suresh Raina, the team’s all-time highest run-scorer pulled out of IPL 2020. 

Chennai’s CEO stated that Raina returned to India because of personal reasons. The exact reason behind it is not known yet but some online reports suggest that Raina developed a COVID-19 phobia in the UAE. While some others have argued that Suresh’s family was under some tension and he had to fly back immediately. 

Former Indian leg-spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan spoke on this matter and said that Chennai needs a new number 3 batsman now. Talking about the potential candidates, he also mentioned Sam Curran’s name. In case you didn't know, Curran played for Kings XI Punjab last year and did a wonderful job with the bat. 

As CSK does not have another left-handed batsman, Curran could well take that spot in Laxman’s opinion. 

“He (Curran) can bat at No. 3 and give CSK those useful runs. Over the years, we have also seen Dhoni preferring left-arm pacers. Curran can come in handy since he can swing the ball in the air and is a very enthusiastic fielder,” Siva told Times of India.

He continued and said that Curran could help Chennai counter the leg-spin bowlers in the opposition team. Also, he labeled the southpaw as a utility player.

With IPL 2020 set to begin in a few weeks, it will be interesting to see if Chennai Super Kings announce a replacement signing for Raina. Or else, Dhoni comes out to bat higher up in the order. Even Sam Curran is an option present in the team right now.