After playing just 16 matches since 2018, CSK's overseas star expresses his frustration

CSK all-rounder Mitchell Santner has expressed his disappointment at his lack of opportunities in the IPL. The New Zealand star played one match in the 2024 IPL. Santner joined CSK in 2018, but the combination and the presence of Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in the line-up over time prevented the Kiwi from getting many opportunities in the starting line-up. In six seasons, he has made just 16 appearances for the Chennai franchise. In his IPL career, he has scored 67 runs and taken 14 wickets.

This season, he got a chance to play against the Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. The left-arm spinner took three wickets in an economical spell, including the wicket of the in-form Shashank Singh. He also scored 11 runs with the bat. While Santner admits that there are moments when being out of the side is tough, he offers support to his teammates during that time:

“Yes, there is undoubtedly an issue of not playing all the time. Although it could be annoying at times, I believe that the difficulty lies in maintaining focus when not actively playing. I try to help the other boys out, whether it’s at training or during the game and even have conversations with people.”

Even though he only plays two games a season, the Kiwi all-rounder says he always prepares himself to be ready when the opportunity presents itself.

With six wins from 11 matches and 12 points, CSK are third on the IPL points table. The reigning champions take on second-placed Rajasthan Royals at Chepauk on Sunday.