IPL 2021: Chennai Super Kings aim to avoid third straight loss

The Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led team, despite two straight defeats prior to the final round-robin match, will have its nose ahead against an inconsistent Punjab outfit that is all but out of the play-offs race

MS Dhoni with his CSK teammates. Picture/ AFP

Eyeing a top-two finish, Chennai Super Kings will be the firm favourites when they lock horns with Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday.

The Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led team, despite two straight defeats prior to the final round-robin match, will have its nose ahead against an inconsistent Punjab outfit that is all but out of the play-offs race.

The three-time champions, who have roared back from a forgettable IPL-2020 and became the first team to secure a spot in the play-offs this season, have been in good form in the second phase and is among the sides to beat.

Meanwhile, uncapped West Indian all-rounder Dominic Drakes replaced injured England all-rounder Sam Curran in the CSK squad for the remainder of the tournament. Left-handed batsman Drakes has featured in one first-class, and 19 T20s.

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