As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up for the IPL auction in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, there’s palpable excitement surrounding their strategy and how they plan to further strengthen their already established core. Known for their intelligence and shrewdness at the auction table, CSK enters this period with a clear vision to remain competitive while ushering in a transition phase. Their previous auction successes have been built on making smart, calculated decisions, and this time, they are likely to repeat that winning formula, focusing on the future while maintaining the stability that has been the hallmark of their success over the years.
The retention of MS Dhoni was undoubtedly one of the key talking points in the lead-up to the retention deadline. Despite widespread speculation surrounding his IPL future, particularly after several years of leading the team with utmost success, CSK decided to retain Dhoni for Rs 4 crore under the uncapped player rule. This rule allows players who have not represented India in the last five years to be considered uncapped, enabling CSK to retain their iconic captain for a significantly lower cost. His leadership, experience, and contribution to CSK over the years remain invaluable, and while his playing future may be uncertain beyond 2025, his presence in the squad ensures that CSK continues to operate with one of the most successful and experienced captains in IPL history.
Alongside Dhoni, other crucial players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana were retained for Rs 18 crore, Rs 18 crore, Rs 12 crore, and Rs 13 crore, respectively. These players will play pivotal roles in shaping the future of CSK. Gaikwad, the dependable opener and captain, remains central to their batting strategy, while Jadeja, one of the most effective all-rounders in the IPL, continues to be a key figure in the spin department. Dube, with his explosive hitting and ability to contribute both with the bat and ball, has earned his spot, as has the young Pathirana, whose pace and yorkers make him a dangerous bowler in the death overs.
On the other hand, CSK made the decision to release several players, including some high-profile names such as Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, and Mitchell Santner. These departures provide CSK with both the freedom and the financial flexibility to bring in fresh talent at the auction, focusing on areas that need reinforcement. One of the main priorities for CSK during this auction will be to address gaps in their team, particularly in terms of their overseas opener and pace-bowling all-rounder, two areas that have proven to be critical in their quest for IPL titles.
The biggest question mark surrounding CSK’s future planning is MS Dhoni’s potential retirement, which could happen as early as 2025. If Dhoni does decide to hang up his boots after the 2025 season, CSK will need to identify a suitable replacement for their legendary captain. As Dhoni has been a key figure behind the stumps for CSK, it makes sense for the franchise to target a young Indian wicketkeeper-batter at the auction who can secure the role for the long term. One player who has been linked with CSK is Rishabh Pant, following his release from the Delhi Capitals. Pant, who has had a close relationship with Dhoni over the years, would be a strong fit for the team. However, his price tag could be a concern for CSK, especially with other teams like Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore boasting larger purses, which would enable them to push harder for his services.
CSK’s approach will likely be one of calculated risk. While the temptation to chase after big names is always present, the franchise is known for its ability to identify talent that fits into its ethos of consistency, calmness under pressure, and adaptability. As such, they will likely target a solid opening partner for Ruturaj Gaikwad. Players like Devon Conway, who has been a standout performer for CSK in recent seasons, could be a reasonable target at the auction. If Conway is unavailable or too expensive, they might turn to Faf du Plessis, another former CSK opener, despite his declining form. The experience and leadership qualities du Plessis brings to the table could prove invaluable for the team.
In terms of the middle order, CSK will need to find a replacement for Ajinkya Rahane, who has been a steady presence in that position. Rahane, who had a decent run in the 2023 season, might not be retained, and CSK may look to bring in a younger player who can step up in the middle order. One possible candidate could be Sameer Rizvi, who has shown glimpses of brilliance in the past season. However, it is more likely that CSK will back Rahane for another season given his calm demeanor, experience, and ability to anchor the innings when required.
CSK has long been known for its reliance on all-rounders, and this season may be no different. The team will likely target a strong overseas all-rounder who can contribute both with the bat and the ball. One of the more prominent names on the auction radar could be Marcus Stoinis, an Australian all-rounder with a proven IPL track record. His ability to deliver with both bat and ball, particularly in the middle overs, makes him an ideal candidate for CSK’s strategy. Another player who could be on their radar is Marco Jansen, a promising all-rounder from South Africa, whose recent form in international cricket has made him a highly sought-after talent.
Furthermore, CSK’s focus will also be on strengthening its spin department. Despite having the reliable Ravindra Jadeja, they struggled with their finger spinners last season, with players like Maheesh Theekshana and Mitchell Santner leaking runs. As such, they might look for a proven leg-spinner like Rahul Chahar, who has consistently performed well for Mumbai Indians. Alternatively, they could target young, emerging talent with the potential to complement Jadeja and provide variety in their spin attack.
In terms of pace bowling, CSK has often relied on experienced Indian pacers like Deepak Chahar and Tushar Deshpande. While Deshpande is likely to be retained, the team may look to bring back Chahar, who has been a reliable performer for the franchise over the years. Additionally, they may explore bringing in Mustafizur Rahman, whose left-arm pace proved effective for CSK in previous seasons. Other pace-bowling options could include Will O'Rourke from New Zealand, a towering pacer who has caught the eye of CSK’s director of cricket, Stephen Fleming.
CSK’s strategy at the upcoming auction will undoubtedly be about striking a balance between retaining their core players and bringing in fresh faces who can contribute to the team’s success. Their primary goal will be to create a squad that can compete effectively, build for the future, and ensure that they remain one of the most successful franchises in IPL history. In the coming weeks, the auction will reveal whether CSK can continue its tradition of making smart and strategic moves, securing a well-rounded squad that can push for another IPL title.
A possible playing XI after the auction could look like this:
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Devon Conway/Faf du Plessis (Overseas Opener), Sameer Rizvi/Ajinkya Rahane (No. 3), Shivam Dube, Marcus Stoinis/Glenn Phillips (Overseas All-rounder/Finisher), Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (Wicketkeeper), Rahul Chahar/Tushar Deshpande (Bowler), Deepak Chahar/Tushar Deshpande (Bowler), Matheesha Pathirana (Pace Bowler)
With their strategic auction moves, CSK will be looking to maintain their stronghold on IPL success while evolving their squad for future triumphs.
