IPL 2025: 6 players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can retain before the big auction

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) they have always been the ruling power Indian Premier League (IPL)known for their remarkable consistency and ability to perform well under pressure. This success can largely be attributed to their strategy of retaining key players who form the core of the team, promoting stability and maintaining a winning tradition over the years. Their approach to team building, which emphasizes the continued development of long-term talent, has set them apart from other franchises.

With the IPL 2025 player retention rules now out allowing each franchise to retain up to 6 players, including the Right to Match (RTM) card, it will be important for CSK to make strategic decisions that can shape the future of the franchise.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the players CSK are likely to retain, each of whom has played a major role in the team’s past victories and is expected to be crucial in their upcoming campaigns.

6 players CSK can retain before IPL 2025

1) Ruturaj Gaikwad (c)

Ruturaj Gaikwad has emerged as a key player for CSK, showing his exceptional batting skills and leadership qualities. Since making his IPL debut for CSK in 2020, Gaikwad has been a standout player, respected for his ability to strengthen the innings and play explosive plays when required. His calmness and tactical acumen make him an ideal captain, especially following a legendary leader. MS Dhoni.

In the 2021 season, Gaikwad’s performances contributed to CSK’s IPL title, as he finished as one of the top scorers. His amazing ability to adapt to different game situations, combined with a strong approach and a wide range of strokes, has made him a fan favorite. So far, the right-handed batsman has played 66 matches, scored 2380 runs, and 18 half-centuries.

As CSK looks to the future, retaining Gaikwad as captain could provide the franchise with a stable leader who reflects the team’s values ​​and has the power to guide it to progress in the IPL. His combination of youth, talent and leadership makes him a pillar of the team’s success in the coming seasons.

2) Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja has been the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ success over the years, known for his all-round skills that greatly improve the team’s performance. As one of the best all-rounders in world cricket, Jadeja brings a unique combination of explosive batting, exceptional bowling, and outstanding fielding skills. His ability to perform in high pressure situations has been a game changer for CSK, especially at critical moments in matches. Jaddu has scored 2959 runs in 240 matches and taken 160 wickets with 5/16 being his best.

In addition to his expertise on the field, Jadeja’s knowledge and strategic thinking make him a valuable asset in the dressing room. His deep understanding of the game allows him to guide the younger players and participate in the team’s overall strategy. Retaining Jadeja will ensure that CSK retain a powerful all-rounder who can impact the game in multiple ways, both with bat and ball.

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3) MS Dhoni

Despite leaving the international cricket scene, Dhoni remains a legend in the IPL and, in particular, for CSK. With the new rules classifying players as uncapped if they have not played international cricket for five years or are not included in the BCCI contract, CSK can keep Dhoni as an uncapped player. This will allow CSK to have a player like Dhoni for just INR 4 crores saving them a lot of money. His experience, leadership, and intellectual acumen make him irreplaceable, as he transitions into a teaching role.

Dhoni’s presence brings valuable insights into game situations and helps nurture the next generation of cricketers. His ability to inspire confidence in his colleagues and make key decisions under pressure is unmatched. Keeping Dhoni will not only be a nod to his legacy but will also be a key strategy to maintain the team’s winning tradition and leadership. This brilliant cricketer has 5243 runs in 264 matches with 152 runs and 42 stumpings.

4) Daryl Mitchell

Daryl Mitchell has emerged as a key player for CSK, showing his versatility as a middle-order batsman and a reliable bowler. His performances in international cricket have highlighted his ability to adapt to different formats, making him valuable in the IPL. Mitchell’s ability to stabilize the innings and hit aggressive knocks has made him an integral part of CSK’s batting.

Moreover, his bowling ability gives CSK an extra option, allowing them to be flexible in their strategy. His youthful energy combined with his growing experience makes him a player that CSK should consider retaining, as he could be a key contributor to the team’s success in the coming seasons. Mithell has played 15 matches so far, scoring 351 runs at a strike rate of 131.

5) Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana has grabbed the attention of the cricket world with his unique bowling style and performance in the cash-rich league. Known for his ability to unleash yorkers at will and maintain a strong line, Pathirana has established himself as a key player in CSK’s bowling attack. His composure under pressure, coupled with his speed and versatility, make him a formidable opponent for any batting scheme.

As a young bowler, Pathirana’s retention will be a move for CSK, as they look to build a strong bowling unit for the future. His growth as a player, combined with the training of experienced bowlers in the team, could see him develop into one of the best bowlers in the league, making him an integral part of CSK’s plans going forward. Pathirana also did not play much in IPL but his stats were very impressive. In 20 matches, Pathirana has taken 34 wickets, with 4/28 being his best.

6) Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube has proved to be an influential player for CSK, who brings batting power and all-round skills to the team. His ability to clear boundaries with ease and play important innings in the middle has made him a valuable addition to the franchise’s batting line-up. Dube’s bowling also adds depth to the team, allowing CSK to use him in different situations of the game. Dube has experience in the IPL but his last few seasons have been very interesting. So far, Dube has played 65 matches, scoring 1502 runs and fifties and taking five wickets.

Retaining Dube will give CSK a powerful all-rounder who can change the game with both bat and ball. His youth, combined with the experience he has gained in previous seasons, positions him as a player who can play a major role in CSK’s success in the coming years. Dube’s versatility and talent make him a strong player to retain as the team looks to continue competing in the IPL.

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