With the IPL 2025 auction rules requiring teams to make strategic decisions based on retention costs, CSK is expected to follow a balanced approach—retaining a few core players while maximizing their budget for the auction. Here is an updated and detailed breakdown of CSK's strategy based on the latest rules.
IPL 2025 Retention and RTM Rules Recap
- First capped player: ₹18 crore
- Second capped player: ₹14 crore
- Third capped player: ₹11 crore
- Fourth capped player: ₹18 crore
- Fifth capped player: ₹14 crore
- Uncapped player: ₹4 crore
Right to Match (RTM): Teams can retain up to 6 players via retention or Right to Match (RTM) card; there is no restriction on the number of RTM cards.
CSK’s Likely Retentions for IPL 2025
CSK is likely to retain four key players while using two RTM cards. Here’s the breakdown:
1. First Retention: Ruturaj Gaikwad (₹18 crore)
Role: Opening Batsman, Current Captain
Reason: Gaikwad has been prolific for CSK and is seen as a promising captain. His consistent top-order performances make him the highest priority, commanding ₹18 crore.
2. Second Retention: Ravindra Jadeja (₹14 crore)
Role: All-rounder
Reason: Jadeja's all-round skills, combined with his leadership and fielding ability, make him indispensable to CSK, warranting a retention of ₹14 crore.
3. Third Retention: Matheesha Pathirana (₹11 crore)
Role: Fast Bowler
Reason: Pathirana has become one of CSK’s most dependable bowlers, particularly for death overs. His unique bowling action and success make him a critical third retention at ₹11 crore.
4. Uncapped Retention: MS Dhoni (₹4 crore)
Role: Wicketkeeper, Leader
Reason: Under the new rules, Dhoni can be retained as an uncapped player. This allows CSK to keep their legendary captain for just ₹4 crore, ensuring his leadership and tactical insight remain at the heart of the team.
Right to Match (RTM) Options
CSK will likely use their two RTM cards to bring back critical players who could attract high bids.
1. RTM for Shivam Dube
Role: Middle-order Power-hitter, Part-time Bowler
Reason: Dube has emerged as a crucial middle-order batsman who can accelerate in the death overs. CSK could use an RTM to retain him, ensuring his power-hitting remains in their lineup.
2. RTM for Deepak Chahar
Role: Fast Bowler
Reason: Despite injury concerns, Chahar’s swing bowling in the powerplay is vital for CSK’s strategy. An RTM would allow CSK to match any bids for him and keep him in their squad.
Additional RTM Options
CSK may also consider using their RTM for the following players, depending on the auction dynamics:
- Devon Conway: A dependable opener who might attract competitive bidding.
- Rachin Ravindra: A valuable all-rounder with immense potential.
Purse Calculation Post-Retentions
After retaining four players, here’s CSK’s purse calculation:
| Player | Retention Cost | Deduction from Purse (in ₹ Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Ruturaj Gaikwad | ₹18 crore | 120 - 18 = 102 |
| Ravindra Jadeja | ₹14 crore | 102 - 14 = 88 |
| Matheesha Pathirana | ₹11 crore | 88 - 11 = 77 |
| MS Dhoni (Uncapped) | ₹4 crore | 77 - 4 = 73 |
Total Deductions: ₹47 crore
Remaining Purse: ₹120 crore - ₹47 crore = ₹73 crore
CSK’s Auction Strategy: Players They Might Target
Post-retentions, CSK will have ₹73 crore left, which gives them room to target key players in the auction. Here are some players CSK might go after:
1. Daryl Mitchell
Role: All-rounder
Reason: Mitchell’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a perfect fit for CSK. His adaptability makes him a valuable addition to CSK’s core.
2. Mitchell Santner
Role: Left-arm Spinner, All-rounder
Reason: Santner provides reliable spin options and is a handy lower-order batsman. CSK may look to bring him back for his experience and effectiveness.
3. Moeen Ali
Role: All-rounder
Reason: Moeen has been an integral part of CSK’s batting and bowling setup. His ability to play in multiple roles makes him an ideal auction target if he’s not retained directly.
4. Sameer Rizvi
Role: Wicketkeeper-batsman
Reason: CSK could invest in a young wicketkeeper like Sameer Rizvi, who has shown potential in the domestic circuit. This could help prepare for the post-Dhoni era.
5. Mustafizur Rahman
Role: Left-arm Fast Bowler
Reason: Mustafizur’s slower balls and death-over expertise make him a great fit for CSK. His experience in the IPL adds value, and CSK might bid aggressively for him.
Conclusion: A Balanced and Tactical Approach
Chennai Super Kings, heading into IPL 2025, will look to retain their core of established players while keeping their purse flexible for the auction. Retaining Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni sets a strong foundation for CSK. Utilizing RTMs for players like Shivam Dube and Deepak Chahar will allow them to reclaim critical talent without heavily impacting their purse.
This strategic retention, coupled with key auction targets like Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, and Mustafizur Rahman, ensures that CSK remains competitive and well-rounded heading into IPL 2025. With ₹73 crore left in the purse, CSK can make smart, targeted buys in the auction and continue their pursuit of excellence in the upcoming season.