Sam Curran And...? 3 Best Buys By Ruturaj Gaikwad's CSK In IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Sam Curran was bought by CSK at IPL 2025 auction [Source: @HustlerCSK]Sam Curran was bought by CSK at IPL 2025 auction [Source: @HustlerCSK]

The IPL 2025 mega auction was a massive day for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as they went all out to fill the gaps in the side and strength the squad with some excellent purchases. With ₹ 54.95 crore splurged, CSK bought 20 players and made sure that the lineup had an apt combination of seasoned players and young guns.

CSK brought back familiar faces like Ravichandran Ashwin and Sam Curran while holding on to stars like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, who they had released prior to the auction. Add this to their robust core of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, and MS Dhoni, and CSK fans have every reason to be pumped up.

Here are the top three best buys by CSK at the IPL 2025 mega auction.

3. Rahul Tripathi: ₹3.4 Cr

When you think of CSK’s middle-order, it’s a spot where legends are made. From Raina to Rayudu, CSK knows the value of a reliable No. 3. And Rahul Tripathi is a batter who’s a perfect fit for this role. CSK snagged him for just ₹3.4 crore which makes it an absolute bargain.

Tripathi brings explosive energy to the middle overs, something CSK was missing. He has history with some of CSK’s players from his Rising Pune Supergiant days, and his attacking approach and ability to play spin is tailor-made for Chepauk’s tricky pitches.

In 95 IPL matches, Tripathi has scored 2236 runs at a blistering strike rate of 139.31. With Shivam Dube likely to bat at No. 4 or 5, Tripathi will be CSK’s key man at No. 3, keeping the scoreboard ticking during and after the powerplay.

2. Noor Ahmad: ₹10 Cr

When it comes to unearthing spinners, CSK has always had the golden touch. Afghan left-arm wrist-spinner, Noor Ahmad is their latest jewel. Snapped up for ₹10 crore, Noor’s versatility and potential make him a game-changer.

In two IPL seasons with Gujarat Titans, Noor grabbed 24 wickets in 23 matches, with an economy of 8.04. He’s bowled in every phase of the game—powerplay, middle overs, and at the death.

Noor’s 3-for against Pakistan in the World Cup 2023 at Chepauk was a teaser of what he could bring to CSK. His stint with the Texas Super Kings in MLC 2024, where he picked nine wickets in four games further solidified his reputation.

CSK didn’t flinch at the high price tag because they know Noor is the future. On Chepauk’s turning tracks, he could be the next big thing, partnering with the ageing but experienced duo of Ashwin and Jadeja.

1. Sam Curran: ₹2.4 Cr

Sam Curran is back in yellow, and this time, he’s a steal at ₹2.4 crore. From his early CSK days in IPL 2020 and 2021 to his ₹18 crore stint with PBKS, Curran has come a long way.

Curran’s bowling at the death and his ability to swing the new ball make him a huge asset. Add to that his evolution as a pinch hitter capable of batting up the order, and you’ve got the perfect all-rounder.

His versatility fills gaps in both the batting and bowling departments. Whether it’s partnering with Matheesha Pathirana in the slog overs or providing depth in the batting lineup, Curran’s return feels like a masterstroke.