Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar on Thursday (September 17) analysed Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) chances of winning the IPL 2020, starting September 19 in UAE.

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According to Gavaskar, the MS Dhoni-led side lack a proper blend of experience and youth, which can hurt them this season. He also acknowledged that Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh’s exit has left a massive void in CSK’s line-up and that it is not going to be easy to find replacements for the seasoned campaigners.

Both Raina and Harbhajan had pulled out of the competition, citing “personal reasons”. CSK will begin their campaign in the tournament opener against defending champions Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi.

"The absence of Raina and Harbhajan has left a huge void in the CSK team, and it will be hard to replace such stalwarts. However, this provides an opportunity for youngsters to make their presence felt," Gavaskar said in an exclusive interview with Sports Tak.

"Any good IPL team must have a proper blend of experience and youth. Does CSK have the kind of youngsters whose energy can uplift the team? That is a huge question the Chennai team faces. Due to this factor, I feel CSK will find the going a little difficult this IPL," he added.

In particular, Gavaskar feels the three-time champions will sorely miss the services of Raina, who is the second highest run-scorer in the history of IPL.

“Suresh Raina, meanwhile, has been an absolute master playing the IPL. As a left-hander, he offers the perfect balance for any team. CSK will sorely miss his services this year.”

However, Gavaskar expects Dhoni to put on a good show in the upcoming as he has now retired from international cricket and carries no baggage with him.

"Having taken retirement from international cricket, MS Dhoni will have no pressure as such, and that should take his performances a notch higher this season,” he remarked.