Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings, known for their player management and auction tactics, have consistently been successful in acquiring big names at reasonable prices. After IPL 2024, where the team had mixed performances under new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, the CSK management will likely look to make changes for the IPL 2025 auction. With many players rumored to be released or leaving their current franchises, several changes are expected at CSK as well. So, which players should CSK target if they become available? Let’s take a look at the top-quality players.
Who should CSK target at IPL 2025 auction
Rohit Sharma
One of the biggest names likely to be the talk of the town until the IPL 2025 auction is Rohit Sharma. In recent months, numerous reports have suggested that Rohit Sharma wants to leave the Mumbai Indians camp, although no official confirmation has been made. If he does become available, almost every team will be eager to acquire the star batter.
For CSK, the priority is to secure a quality opener, an area where they have struggled. If Rachin Ravindra is not retained, CSK will likely target an opener, and who wouldn’t want to acquire a player with over 6,000 runs in the IPL? There’s no doubt that CSK will be eyeing “Hitman” if he goes under the hammer.
Ishan Kishan
Another Mumbai Indians player who might not be retained is Ishan Kishan. This star left-handed batter had a modest season last year, scoring 320 runs in 14 innings. Despite getting opportunities, he failed to capitalize on them. Mumbai Indians, having been with him for a long time, may look to bring in other star batters, which could open up the possibility for CSK to acquire Kishan.
Kishan’s batting ability is well-known, and he also provides wicketkeeping. Looking ahead, with MS Dhoni expected to retire in the near future, there could be a significant opportunity for this 26-year-old youngster to take over the wicket-keeping role at CSK, if not this season but in the next IPL.
KL Rahul
There are strong indications that LSG may not retain their skipper, KL Rahul. They might keep him as a player but not as a leader for the IPL 2025 season. If this happens, we could see some changes, especially with Rahul possibly leaving the camp. The franchise is currently eyeing how retention policy structure and is uncertain about whom to retain.
Rahul had an animated conversation with LSG owner Sanjay Goenka after the team’s loss to SRH by 10 wickets last season, which fueled speculation about his future with the franchise. CSK could benefit from this scenario. Like Ishan Kishan, Rahul provides batting stability at the top and also offers wicket-keeping skills. He could also be a potential captain for the CSK camp.
