CSK have built a legacy as one of the most successful teams in the world. With four championships and a fiercely loyal fanbase, it is no surprise that this franchise has attracted some of the greatest spinners in the game’s history. From Muttiah Muralidaran and Imran Tahir to Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, each legendary bowler has donned the iconic yellow jersey. CSK have come to depend heavily on their spin bowlers, especially at home, but their other bowlers have also stepped up to make a mark. Let us take a look at the 5 greatest bowlers to have ever represented this illustrious team.
#5 Mohit Sharma
The fruitful stint of the right-arm pacer with CSK from 2013 to 2015 was a path to a national call-up, ultimately leading to his participation in the 2015 World Cup as an injury replacement. He was commended for his rapid bouncers and eluding back-of-hand deliveries, having taken 69 wickets across 53 matches – crowning him the Purple Cap recipient in the 2014 season with 23 wickets.
#4 Albie Morkel
Morkel was an incredibly popular figure among his teammates and the fans during his six-year career with CSK from 2008 to 2013. Under MS Dhoni, he was integral to the bowling unit and finished his tenure with 91 wickets from 92 matches.
#3 Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja has been one of the longest-serving players for CSK, having clocked over 150 appearances in over a decade. Initially roped in mainly for his spin-bowling skills, Jadeja’s batting has seen varying levels of success throughout these years. Across 156 matches, he has picked up 114 wickets, including one instance of a five-wicket haul.
#2 Ravichandran Ashwin
The off-spinner was a major force in the Indian Premier League after joining CSK in 2008. His excellent form saw him playing a crucial role in their title wins in 2010 and 2011, where he managed 20 and 13 wickets, respectively. Across his tenure with the franchise, he pocketed 120 wickets in 121 matches at an impressive economy rate of 6.66.
#1 Dwayne Bravo
The West Indies all-rounder has not only taken the most wickets for his franchise, but he is also the leader in scalps overall in the league. He overtook Lasith Malinga’s tally of 154 wickets in 120 matches, and both of his Purple Cap seasons have been while playing for CSK. His 2013 season holds a record of 32 wickets, making him tied with Harshal Patel for the most wickets taken in a single season.
