The Unexpected CSK in IPL 2025

CSK has focused on a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talent. The return of Ravichandran Ashwin and the addition of fresh faces like Devon Conway and Noor Ahmed are expected to strengthen both batting and bowling departments.

Do you think CSK has a strong lineup for the upcoming season? Lets see the Expected Playing Eleven for the Chennai Super Kings

Here are some details about the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the IPL 2025 season:

Retained Players:

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C) – ₹18 crore
2. Shivam Dube – ₹12 crore
3. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹18 crore
4. Matheesha Pathirana – ₹13 crore
5. MS Dhoni (WK) – ₹4 crore

Key Purchases:

1. Devon Conway – ₹6.25 crore
2. Rahul Tripathi – ₹3.4 crore
3. Rachin Ravindra – ₹4 crore
4. Ravichandran Ashwin – ₹9.75 crore
5. Khaleel Ahmed – ₹4.80 crore
6. Noor Ahmed – ₹10 crore
7. Vijay Shankar – ₹1.2 crore

Head Coach:

• Stephen Fleming

Here’s the expected playing eleven for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025:

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)
   • Ruturaj Gaikwad is a key player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. Retained for ₹18 crore, he’s known for his consistent opening performances. Gaikwad has been CSK’s most reliable opener, scoring heavily in the powerplay and anchoring the innings. His elegant stroke play and ability to accelerate when needed make him a vital asset. Leading Maharashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he continues to showcase his leadership skills. With 2380 runs in 66 IPL games, including two centuries and 18 fifties, Gaikwad is a cornerstone of CSK’s batting lineup
2. Devon Conway
   • Devon Conway, the New Zealand opener, has been a significant addition to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since his debut in IPL 2022. Known for his solid technique and adaptability, Conway excels in switching gears during his innings1. In IPL 2023, he scored 672 runs, including a Player of the Match performance in the final, helping CSK clinch the title. His consistency at the top of the order, combined with his ability to play spin well, makes him a valuable asset for CSK. Conway’s return for ₹6.25 crore in IPL 2025 is expected to reignite the successful opening partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad
3. Rahul Tripathi
   • Rahul Tripathi, an aggressive opener for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has been a key player since joining the team in IPL 2025. Known for his explosive starts, Tripathi excels in the powerplay, providing quick runs to set up the platform for the rest of the batting lineup. With a strike rate of over 140, he’s a game-changer in the early overs. Tripathi’s ability to hit big shots and rotate the strike makes him a valuable asset for CSK. His consistent performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting players in the league.
4. Shivam Dube
   • Shivam Dube is a powerful all-rounder for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. Known for his aggressive batting and handy medium-pace bowling, Dube has been a key player since his debut in IPL 2022. With a base price of ₹50 lakhs, he was bought for ₹4 crore by CSK. Dube has played 65 IPL matches, scoring 1,502 runs with a highest score of 95* and taking 5 wickets. His ability to hit big shots and contribute with the ball makes him a valuable asset for CSK
5. Ravindra Jadeja
   • Ravindra Jadeja is a seasoned all-rounder for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. Known for his exceptional spin bowling and dynamic batting, Jadeja has been a cornerstone of CSK’s lineup. With a base price of ₹16 crore, he was retained for ₹18 crore, highlighting his value to the team. Jadeja’s ability to break crucial partnerships and contribute with both bat and ball makes him indispensable for CSK. His consistent performances and all-round capabilities have made him a fan favorite and a key player in CSK’s strategy.
6. MS Dhoni (WK)
   • MS Dhoni, the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman, continues to be a vital part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. Retained as an uncapped player for ₹4 crore, Dhoni’s leadership and calmness under pressure remain unmatched. Despite his age and knee issues, he continues to contribute with his sharp cricketing brain and finishing skills. Dhoni has been the face of CSK, leading them to multiple titles and consistently performing in high-pressure situations. His presence on the field inspires teammates and fans alike, ensuring his legacy in the IPL endures.
7. R Ashwin
   • Ravichandran Ashwin, a seasoned spinner, rejoined Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 for ₹9.75 crore. Known for his crafty bowling and handy batting, Ashwin adds depth to CSK’s spin attack alongside Jadeja and Noor Ahmad. His experience and skill make him a valuable asset for the team, especially on Chepauk’s spin-friendly pitches.
8. Noor Ahmad
   • Noor Ahmed, the young Afghan spinner, is a promising talent for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. Acquired for ₹10 crore, he brings a fresh dynamic to CSK’s spin attack. With an impressive T20 record, including eight wickets from ten games last season, Noor is known for his ability to take wickets at crucial moments. His left-arm wrist spin adds variety to the bowling lineup, and his skill set is well-suited to the conditions at Chepauk. CSK hopes Noor will be a key player in their quest for another IPL title.
9. Matheesha Pathirana
   • Matheesha Pathirana, the young Sri Lankan pacer, has been a valuable addition to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since his debut in IPL 2022. Known for his raw pace and ability to generate bounce, Pathirana has quickly become a key player in CSK’s bowling attack. In IPL 2023, he took 13 wickets in 6 matches, showcasing his potential to trouble even the best batsmen. His performances have been instrumental in CSK’s success, and he continues to be a promising talent for the future.
10. Khaleel Ahmed
    • Khaleel Ahmed, the left-arm medium pacer, joined Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 for ₹4.8 crore. Known for his agility and wicket-taking ability, Khaleel has been a consistent performer since his debut in 2018. With 57 matches under his belt, he has taken 74 wickets, including a standout season in 2019 with 19 wickets. His ability to deliver under pressure and take crucial wickets makes him a valuable addition to CSK’s bowling lineup
11. Sam Curran
    • Sam Curran, the English all-rounder, rejoined Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 for ₹2.4 crore after a successful stint with Punjab Kings. Known for his versatility, Curran can contribute with both bat and ball, making him a valuable asset in various match situations. His ability to bowl in different phases and provide crucial runs adds depth to CSK’s lineup. Curran’s previous performances for CSK, including his impactful role in their 2021 title win, make his return a strategic move for the team.

This lineup combines experienced players with promising new talent, aiming for a strong performance in the upcoming season. Do you think this combination will work well for CSK?

Strengths:

1. Spin Attack: CSK boasts one of the strongest spin attacks with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, and Noor Ahmad. This trio can be a game-changer in the middle overs.
2. Experienced Batsmen: With players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, and Devon Conway, CSK has a solid top order that can anchor the innings.
3. Versatile All-rounders: Sam Curran and Deepak Hooda add depth to both batting and bowling, providing flexibility in various match situations.
4. Leadership: MS Dhoni’s leadership and experience continue to be a significant asset for the team.

Weaknesses:

1. Inexperienced Fast Bowlers: The Indian fast-bowling lineup is relatively inexperienced, with players like Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Gurjapneet Singh who are yet to prove themselves in the IPL.
2. Lack of X-factor: While CSK has a balanced squad, they might lack a few high-profile, game-changing players that some other teams possess.
3. Over-reliance on Spin: The team might become too dependent on their spinners, which could be a disadvantage on pitches favoring fast bowlers.

Do you think CSK has what it takes to go all the way this season?