IPL 2025 Mega Auction - 3 Players CSK Will Target Via RTM

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Devon Conway in CSK Jersey [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]Devon Conway in CSK Jersey [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]

The IPL 2025 retention list is finally out. All the franchises have declared their retained players, and the remaining players for the teams have also been unveiled.

Chennai Super Kings is probably the most successful team in the Indian Premier League, with five Titles and numerous finals. One key to their success has been the ability to maintain their core. The Kings have gone ahead and have taken a similar strategy for the next season.

Here is a look at the list of CSK's retained players - 

Ruturaj Gaikwd for INR 18 Cr
Ravindra Jadeja for INR 18 Cr
Matheesha Pathirana for INR 13 Cr
Shivam Dube for INR 12 Cr
MS Dhoni for INR 4 Cr

So, they retained five players and used INR 65 Cr for that. Now, CSK will have one RTM to use during the mega auction, with a purse value of INR 55 Cr remaining.

Since they like keeping their core the same, CSK will eye a few players from their IPL 2024 campaign to use the RTM. Here are three players CSK might target -  

Will CSK Use The RTM For Devon Conway?

The New Zealand opener has been integral to the team since his arrival. Devon Conway has played 23 matches for CSK and has scored 924 runs in them at an average of 48.63 and a strike rate of 141.28. His consistency, scoring rate and the understanding he has developed with Ruturaj Gaikwad makes him the most prominent candidate to be used RTM on by CSK. 

Will CSK Use The RTM For Maheesh Theekshana?

The Sri Lankan spinner has been a prized possession of CSK since he arrived in the team. Maheesh Theekshana's ability to bowl at any stage of a game makes him a great utility bowler. He has played 27 matches for CSK and picked up 25 wickets while maintaining an economy of 7.66. His utility and effectivity at the Chepauk, the home ground of CSK, make him a crucial choice for the team to use the RTM on.

Will CSK Use The RTM For Rachin Ravindra?

The Kiwi all-rounder had a stellar ODI World Cup in 2023. Rachin Ravindra's performance in the tournament earned him an IPL contract with CSK during the 2024 season. Although he did not deliver as expected, he was projected as an investment for the future. His ability to bat at the top of the order and bowl a couple of essential overs with the ball makes him someone CSK might think about using the RTM on.