Matthew Hayden expects new signing Ben Stokes to be CSK’s X-factor in IPL 2023

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden believes new signing Ben Stokes will be the X-factor for the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023.
The England player was bought for a staggering price of Rs 16.25 crore, which meant the all-rounder was the most expensive auction buy for the franchise in its hory.
And while Hayden agreed with Stokes’ critics that the all-rounder had not lived up to his reputation and potential in the T20 tournament, he backed the New Zealand-born England star to deliver this year.
“The X-factor for CSK this season is their new signing, Ben Stokes, who has never realised his potential in the IPL. And he’s one of those players we see playing all over the world. He’s got that match-winning ability. Now under a CSK regime where it’s all about cricket, I think that he’s got the big chance to be the X-factor this season,” Hayden said on Star Sports where is part of the experts panel.
CSK will take on reigning champions Gujarat Titans in the opening encounter of IPL 2023 on Friday.
Meanwhile, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said he would be keeping an eye on Ravindra Jadeja this season.
“One player who I am going to have my eyes on will be Ravindra Jadeja. I want to see what kind of batting he’s going to do for CSK. I think he’ll be pushed higher up in the batting order (this season). As well as his four overs with the ball (will be key). If you look at world cricket currently, there’s no better all-rounder than him. So, I am looking forward to seeing Ravindra Jadeja performing in the IPL,” he said.