CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has recently addressed the growing speculation surrounding Rishabh Pant’s potential move to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the IPL 2025 auction. Pant, after ending his nine-year association with Delhi Capitals (DC), is expected to be one of the biggest draws in the auction, which is scheduled for November 24 and 25. The rumors of Pant joining CSK have stirred excitement among fans, with some even envisioning him as the natural successor to MS Dhoni in the long term. However, Viswanathan has responded to these rumors and provided some clarity about the team’s strategy going into the auction.
In an interview with Ambati Rayudu on Provoke TV, Viswanathan discussed the discussions that took place within the franchise regarding player retention. He emphasized that CSK had talks with key figures, including team captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, former captain MS Dhoni, and coach Stephen Fleming, to identify the core players they wanted to keep for the upcoming season. The consensus was clear: they prioritized retaining players who had played a crucial role in stabilizing and building the team’s success in previous years. "We had discussions with Ruturaj, the captain, MS (Dhoni), and coach Stephen Fleming before we decided on the retentions. We were very clear that the players that helped the team grow, stabilize in the previous years were the ones very important for the CSK team to continue further," Viswanathan explained, highlighting the importance of continuity and the stability brought by these players.
As CSK heads into the IPL 2025 auction with a relatively modest purse of 55 crore rupees, Viswanathan was candid about the challenges they will face when competing for some of the most highly sought-after Indian players. By choosing to retain their core players, CSK has limited financial flexibility, which means they will be at a disadvantage compared to teams with larger purses who can afford to go after top-tier Indian players. Viswanathan acknowledged this reality, saying, "We knew that if we retain these players, we would have a lesser purse to go into the auction. We knew that we wouldn't be able to compete with the other teams when it comes to the best of the Indian players. I mean, we will still try, but I don’t think we'll be able to get them at the auction."
This admission suggests that while CSK will be active in the auction, their strategy will be more focused on reinforcing specific areas of their squad rather than making big-money signings. CSK’s approach to the auction will likely prioritize tactical additions that will complement the team’s existing strengths, rather than chasing high-profile players like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, or others who are expected to attract substantial bids.
The IPL 2025 auction will see a number of high-profile Indian and international players being hotly contested by franchises with varying budget sizes. The likes of Khaleel Ahmed, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Mohammed Siraj, and several others are expected to be in demand. However, CSK’s retention strategy means they may not have the financial muscle to compete with franchises that have more substantial budgets, and they may miss out on bidding for some of the bigger names.
Viswanathan's remarks point to a clear strategy of continuity and careful spending. While CSK may not be able to compete for top-tier Indian talent, they will focus on reinforcing their existing core team, adding players that fit into their long-term vision for the franchise. CSK has historically thrived with a solid mix of experience and youth, and this approach may see them focus on finding players who can add to their depth and help in areas where they feel they need improvement.
As for Rishabh Pant, while it remains uncertain whether CSK will make a move for the wicketkeeper-batter, Viswanathan's response suggests that the franchise is not likely to break the bank for any one player, especially with the constraints of their budget. Pant’s injury in recent months and his return to competitive cricket have kept him in the spotlight, and his inclusion in the IPL 2025 auction could trigger significant interest from other franchises with larger purses. Pant's skills as a dynamic batter and his leadership potential could make him a valuable addition to any team, but CSK's strategy may lead them to look elsewhere for tactical acquisitions that fit within their budget.
Despite the challenges, CSK is expected to remain a formidable team in the IPL, relying on their well-established core players like MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, and Ravindra Jadeja. The franchise’s ability to build a competitive team with a lower purse has been proven in the past, and Viswanathan is confident that they will find players who can continue to add value to the team.
As the IPL 2025 auction draws near, the fate of Rishabh Pant and his potential move to CSK remains uncertain. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Pant becomes a part of CSK’s plans or if another franchise secures his services.
