Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu expressed concerns about Chennai Super Kings’ inability to provide experienced guidance to Anshul Kamboj during a tough match against Lucknow Super Giants. Kamboj faced a challenging spell where he was hit for four consecutive sixes by Mitchell Marsh, conceding 63 runs in just 2.4 overs as LSG secured a seven-wicket victory while chasing 188 runs.
Rayudu, speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, highlighted the absence of seasoned players within CSK who could have supported Kamboj mentally during the intense situation. He emphasized the need for experienced heads to intervene and help the young player refocus during such high-pressure moments.
The former cricketer pointed out that wicketkeeper Sanju Samson was too distant from the action to provide immediate assistance, stressing the importance of disrupting Kamboj’s thought process before the situation worsened. Rayudu suggested that a change in strategy or a different approach could have potentially altered the outcome for Kamboj.
Despite Kamboj’s expensive bowling figures, Rayudu defended the young bowler, attributing the tough outing to facing two batsmen in exceptional form. He noted that Kamboj had performed well throughout the season and that experiencing a bad day was inevitable in cricket, likening it to a batter getting out for a low score.
In the match, CSK posted a competitive total of 187/5, led by Kartik Sharma’s 71 runs and Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 32. However, a formidable opening partnership of 135 runs between Marsh and Josh Inglis propelled LSG to victory, significantly denting CSK’s chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
