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The big-ticket IPL 2023 fixture between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings kicked off without some big stars from the Yellow Army. As CSK captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni walked out for the toss, he announced that England all-rounders Ben Stokes and Moeen Ali were out of the playing XI at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Also Read: MI vs CSK 2023 Live Score | IPL 2023 Live Score | IPL 2023 Points Table
Talking to Ravi Shastri, Dhoni stated that Ben Stokes has been dealing with an injury and hence has been ruled out of the game. While addressing M oeen Ali’s absence, the former Indian captain stated that the spin-bowling all-rounder has an illness and hence is unwell. Replacing these two players CSK included Ajinkya Rahane and Dwayne Pretorius on the side.
He said, “We will bowl first. Think one of the most memorable venues not only the 2011 win but when we won in 2007, when we came back the reception, we got was great. Generally got pace and bounce, and you can play your shots We have a few injury concerns, Stokes has an injury, Mo is not available. Ajinkya and Pretorius are playing. These are the two changes we have made.”
Similarly, the Mumbai Indians also had a major injury as English fast bowler Jofra Archer was out of the playing XI. MI captain Rohit Sharma stated that the decision to drop Archer was a precautionary call. Replacing the British speedster, the five-time champions brought in Australia’s Jason Behrendorff. He said, “Unfortunately we have got an injury, I would not call it an injury but it is just a precaution - Jofra is not playing, we have got the other guys.”
