IPL 2025 | 3 Wicketkeepers CSK Can Buy If MS Dhoni Retires Before Mega Auction

MS Dhoni's IPL future remains a mystery (X)MS Dhoni's IPL future remains a mystery (X)

The cricketing world remains on tenterhooks, eagerly awaiting MS Dhoni's decision regarding his IPL future. His silence has left fans of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in suspense, particularly after stepping down from captaincy before IPL 2024, passing the mantle to Ruturaj Gaikwad.

While the Yellow Army’s official word on MS Dhoni’s future will be revealed with the announcement of retained players, speculation runs rampant about a possible successor. Should Dhoni hang up his boots, CSK may look to the auction for a keeper-batter who can step into the giant shoes he leaves behind.

Here’s a look at three potential wicketkeeper-batters CSK can target if Dhoni retires before IPL 2025.

3. Abhishek Porel

Abhishek Porel showed glimpses of his immense talent during his stint with Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024. The young keeper-batter amassed 327 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 32.70, paired with a blazing strike rate of 159.51.

Porel’s versatility stood out as he batted in various positions—top order, middle order, and lower middle order—proving he has the temperament and ability to adjust to any role. With 15 sixes and two fifties, his big-hitting skills were on full display, making him a natural fit for CSK’s attacking brand of cricket.

On the wicketkeeping front, Porel has shown promise with sharp glovework, complementing his aggressive batting. With Rishabh Pant likely taking the primary wicketkeeper role for Delhi Capitals, and Kumar Kushagra waiting in the wings, DC is likely to release Porel. CSK could capitalise on this opportunity, making him a young and dynamic replacement for Dhoni. If he dons the yellow jersey, Porel could prove to be the wild card in CSK’s pack.


2. Anuj Rawat

Anuj Rawat, the talented keeper from Uttarakhand, has been with Royal Challengers Bangalore since the IPL 2022 Mega Auction, where he was bought for INR 3.4 crore. Despite showing immense promise, Rawat’s journey with RCB has not been smooth sailing.

In three seasons, he has only played 24 matches, scoring 318 runs at a modest average of 19.88 and a strike rate of 119.10. While these numbers may not set the world on fire, they fail to reflect Rawat’s actual potential. Rawat possesses excellent batting skills and can finish games, a trait CSK values deeply.

What makes his case even stronger is his recent expression of desire to represent Chennai Super Kings, revealing his admiration for Dhoni. This personal motivation could light a fire under him, inspiring Rawat to give his all should he get a chance to play under Dhoni’s guidance. Rawat’s ability to serve as a finisher could be invaluable, and a consistent run at CSK might just allow him to come into his own, offering a like-for-like successor to Dhoni’s calm finishing abilities.

1. KL Rahul

If CSK is looking for someone with a proven track record and ample experience, KL Rahul fits the bill like a glove. Rahul, who has been the captain and wicketkeeper of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) since IPL 2022, could be on the market as LSG ponders a potential leadership change after failing to reach the final in three seasons.

With over 4000 IPL runs to his name, Rahul is a class act at the top of the order and can offer CSK stability in the opening partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad. More importantly, Rahul’s calm demeanour on the field mirrors that of Dhoni. His ability to read the game from behind the stumps, along with his maturity and captaincy experience, makes him a natural leader in waiting.

If CSK signs Rahul, they can shore up their top order, allowing Devon Conway’s overseas slot to be utilized elsewhere. Rahul’s inclusion could prove to be a masterstroke, providing the team with a seamless transition post-Dhoni.