Why is Deepak Chahar not playing today's RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 match? 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Deepak Chahar is absent from the playing XI in the crunch 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The high-octane encounter is taking place at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, May 18.

Deepak Chahar last played in the tournament during the home contest against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 1. The right-arm pacer clutched his hamstring while bowling the first over of his spell itself, and walked to the pavilion. CSK head coach later confirmed that the injury is a serious one, and Chahar has not been on the field to play since then.

CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad confirmed that Chahar is still not part of the team, and named only one change, that too a forced one.

"We'll bowl first. The wicket looks good, conditions are overcast and we will look to make the most of the movement in the first 2-3 overs. It looks a bit damp, but we'll go with great intent. Every game in the IPL is must win, nothing changes for us, we'll take it ball-by-ball, try and win the small processes. We've won some crucial games to go ahead of the pack in the middle. Just one change - Moeen isn't available, Santner replaces him," Gaikwad said after losing the toss

Deepak Chahar has not been ruled out of the tournament, and in fact he was even seen bowling in the nets. However, he is not fit enough to take the field in the final league contest. He might play a part in the playoffs if CSK go on to qualify for it.

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Deepak Chahar has taken five wickets in eight outings in IPL 2024

Chahar has had a relatively forgettable campaign so far. Usually reliable with the new ball due to ability to swing the ball around in the powerplay, he has largely been ineffective, and the numbers reflect the same.

He has played eight matches this season, picking up only five wickets at an average of 40.40 and an economy of 8.60. He only has one wicket to his name in his last four appearances.