IPL 2025 Auction: 4 players CSK can retain under current ‘3+1’ rule

As much as expected Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL) As the season approaches, all eyes are on the upcoming big auction, marking the end of the current team naming cycle. I Chennai Super Kings (CSK)which is one of the most respected and consistently successful companies in the history of the IPL, is preparing to make strategic decisions about its program. Known for their unmatched consistency and ability to perform under pressure, CSK have won the IPL title five times, tied Mumbai Indians in many competitions.

Historically, teams are allowed to keep up to four players before the big auction. However, recent discussions with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) they suggested that this number could be increased to eight, giving teams more room to keep their core team. This auction will be an important moment for the franchise players as they aim to refine their squads and strengthen their arrangements for the upcoming season.

Chennai Super Kings are likely to retain 4 key players for IPL 2025

1. Rachin Ravindra: explosive batsman

New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra has quickly made a name for himself with his explosive batting and useful bowling. Making his debut in IPL 2024, Ravindra played 10 matches and amassed 222 runs. Known for his dynamic batting style, Ravindra’s ability to deliver match-winning performances with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset.

• Strong Hitting: Ravindra’s aggressive approach and ability to play crucial innings have been the highlight of his recent performances.
• Stability: His amazing batting rate and consistent scoring made him a reliable player.
• Various Bowling: Apart from his good batting, Ravindra’s bowling adds depth to CSK’s bowling attack.

2. Ravindra Jadeja: Premier All-Rounder

Ravindra Jadeja, the pillar of CSK’s success, was celebrated for his amazing all-round skills and unmatched playing ability. His all-round skills contributed to CSK’s recent title win in 2023.

• Cycle Effect: Jadeja’s ability to contribute so much with the bat and the ball, along with his unparalleled fielding, adds immense value to the team.
• Successful Bowling: His left-arm off-arm is crucial in breaking ties and delivering crucial overs.
• Reliable Calling: Jadeja’s defensive batting in the middle order and his finishing skills make him one of the best bowlers in IPL history.

3. Ruturaj Gaikwad: An emerging leader

Ruturaj Gaikwad, the CSK captain in the recent season, has shown incredible consistency and leadership. Winning the Orange Cap in IPL 2021 with 635 runs in 16 matches, Gaikwad’s performance and leadership qualities make him a prime candidate for retention.

• Special Call: Gaikwad’s ability to score runs consistently and under pressure makes him an integral part of the top order.
• Leadership Qualities: As the latest captain, Gaikwad has shown promising leadership skills, guiding the team with confidence and poise.
• Compatibility: His recent performances underline his status as a reliable batsman for CSK.

4. Matheesha Pathirana: young sensation of speed

At just 21 years of age, Matheesha Pathirana has quickly become a key player for CSK with his amazing fast bowling. Since his debut in 2022, Pathirana has taken 34 wickets in 20 matches, showing his potential as a future star.

• Swing and speed: Pathirana’s ability to swing the ball from both sides and pace makes him a versatile bowler who can adapt to different situations.
• Accuracy: His accuracy in consistently hitting the right length makes him a challenging opponent for the batsmen.
• Green Talent: Pathirana’s aggressive bowling and pressure handling at a young age highlight his immense potential.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Former India pacer to join LSG as team consultant

CSK pressures BCCI to restore MS Dhoni’s retention rule

The BCCI has not officially announced the final rules for the upcoming IPL auction. However, it is reported that the board may revisit the old rule at the request of Chennai Super Kings, which may allow the franchise to retain the former India captain. MS Dhoni

The rule in question excludes players who have retired from international cricket for more than five years. This rule was valid from the first season of IPL until 2021 but has been terminated because no franchises have been used. According to reports, in the recent meeting between the IPL franchise owners and the BCCI on July 31, Chennai Super Kings proposed to bring back the rule, the management urged the board to bring it back.

Although MS Dhoni is no longer the captain, his legacy with CSK is still significant. The 43-year-old wicket-taker has been with CSK since the first season of the IPL and has led the team to five titles. His experience and strategic acumen continue to be valuable to the franchise, making him a respected member of the team.

As CSK prepares for the IPL 2025 auction, these players represent key elements of their strategy going forward. The decisions taken in this auction will be crucial in shaping the future of one of the most successful franchises in the IPL.

ALSO READ: 74 or 84 matches in IPL 2025? BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has his own opinion