IPL 2025: R Ashwin And...? 3 Worst Buys By Ruturaj Gaikwad's CSK In Mega Auction

Jatin

Ravichandran Ashwin was bought by CSK for a hefty amount [Source: @div_yumm/x.com]Ravichandran Ashwin was bought by CSK for a hefty amount [Source: @div_yumm/x.com]

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The IPL 2025 mega auction was supposed to be a golden chance for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to bolster their squad and plug in the gaps. With ₹54.95 crore shelled and 20 players signed, fans had every reason to expect the team to nail it.

And to be honest, CSK did make some excellent moves by bringing back familiar faces like Sam Curran and Ravichandran Ashwin while holding onto stars like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, who they had released before the auction. But not all that glitters is gold and some purchases left fans scratching their heads.

Here’s a look at CSK’s top three worst buys at the IPL 2025 mega auction.

3. Vijay Shankar: ₹1.2 Cr

CSK decided to go for Vijay Shankar, spending ₹1.2 crore on the all-rounder. Honestly, it’s a tough call to understand. Shankar’s IPL 2024 numbers were unimpressive. 

He scored just 83 runs in seven matches at an average of 16.60 and a strike rate of 115.28. That’s not the kind of form you’d expect CSK to bet on.

To make matters worse, he hasn’t been bowling much in recent seasons, which limits his role in the team. On top of that, he isn’t the fittest or most agile on the field. Sure, CSK loves to back players who might surprise everyone, but this feels more like a wild gamble than a smart pick.

2. Deepak Hooda: ₹1.7 Cr

The next player on this unfortunate list is Deepak Hooda, another head-scratcher. Hooda has been playing in the cash-rich league for close to a decade now, where he has plied his trade for several teams but he hasn’t been able to cement his place in any of the sides. Apart from one decent season in 2022, his performances have been below par.

In 118 IPL matches, Hooda has scored 1,465 runs at an average of just 18.31. That’s not the kind of consistency CSK needed in their middle order. With the ball, his contribution has been minimal too, just 10 wickets at an economy of 8.54.

Last season, Hooda scored only 145 runs in 11 matches. For ₹1.7 crore, CSK could’ve looked at younger, more promising talent. This feels like a move that might hurt them later in the season.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin: ₹9.75 Cr

Now for the big shocker: Ravichandran Ashwin. CSK shelled out a massive ₹9.75 crore to bring back their former star. Ashwin is a legend, no doubt about it. He’s played 212 IPL matches and has been a match-winner for years. But at 38, is he worth that kind of money?

His performances last season for Rajasthan Royals don’t inspire much confidence. Nine wickets in 15 matches at an average of 51.89 and an economy of 8.49 isn’t what you’d call stellar.

While his experience and knowledge of Chepauk’s turning tracks could help, his current form and fitness are big question marks. CSK could’ve used that ₹9.75 crore to invest in younger, players who could be a part of the team’s future. This feels more like an emotional decision than a strategic one.