Daryl Mitchell and Maheesh Theekshana [Source: @IPL,@HustlerCSK/x.com]
When it comes to the Indian Premier League (IPL), one cannot keep away the Chennai Super Kings from the discussion. Be it their strategies, the controversies surrounding them or the consistency they have shown in the league over the years, the fans can’t seem to exclude the franchise from their discussions on the league.
The same happened in the build-up to releasing the retention lists for IPL 2025. The legend and enigmatic leader of the franchise, MS Dhoni, was at the centre of all the discussions regarding the CSK retention list. The future of the former India skipper and the fact that he will be retained as an uncapped player were the various points the players debated thoroughly on. As the retention list of CSK was revealed on 31st October, all those questions were answered as the franchise retained the legend for a price of INR 4 Cr as an uncapped player.
The CSK retention list revealed a major fact. The franchise has looked to keep its core together while holding onto some of its biggest matchwinners. But this also meant that some of their international and national stars had to be released. These players will be under the radar of the other IPL teams. Here are three CSK players who might be costly buys during the IPL 2025 Mega Auction.
Rachin Ravindra
Why Will The IPL Franchises Look To Buy Rachin Ravindra?
- The Kiwi all-rounder had a stellar ODI World Cup 2023, where he showed that he can adapt well to the Indian conditions. With his batting displays, Rachin Ravindra further solidified this fact in the recently concluded series against India. The teams will be eager to rope in an overseas player who can easily adapt to the Indian conditions.
- Besides his efficient batting, Rachin can also be a handy bowler. The Kiwi can provide great flexibility to his captain, especially on wickets where there is something for the spinners.
Devon Conway
Why Will The IPL Franchises Look To buy Devon Conway?
- Devon Conway has established himself as a very important part of the CSK batting line-up in the two seasons he played for them. The southpaw has proven that he is a solid presence at the top of the order. The consistency and stability that Conway brings to the table will make him one of the most sought-after players during the IPL 2025 mega auction.
- During IPL 2023, Devon Conway showed that he could adapt his game to all the pitches where the tournament was expected to be played. The presence of an opener who can deliver with the same consistency and adapt his game as per the playing conditions is bound to pique the interest of all the franchises.
Maheesh Theekshana
Why Will The IPL Franchises Look To Buy Maheesh Theekshana?
- The Sri Lankan mystery spinner can be a prized asset for any team. Maheesh Theekshana can bowl at any stage of a T20 game. He can be equally effective in the powerplays, middle-overs and in the death phase. Thus, his presence allows the team to adjust their plans dynamically as per the situation of the match, adding flexibility to the captain’s plans.
Conclusion
All the IPL franchises will be chalking out their plans with their analysts and support staff. They will come up with strategies to fill their squad with the most effective players based on their setup and the conditions in which they will play. It will be interesting to see if these three players are actually the part of the plans of more than one IPL franchises.