Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings, who had a mixed last IPL season, came close to getting into the playoffs but couldn’t quite make it. However, no one can argue how well they manage the team, from auction tactics to rotation of all overs in crucial game moments, they never disappoint their fans. Now, with IPL 2025 being the talk of the town. And since this time it’s a major bidding event, teams will have to release many players and keep only a few. The 5+1 retention rule has been decided, where five players can be retained before the auction and one RTM during the auction.
However, if a team decides not to retain any players, then unlike in past auctions, they can use six RTMs instead. So, how will CSK approach this? Will they opt for one RTM card or retain four players and go for two RTMs? Since nothing is confirmed yet and teams have until October 31st to decide their top five priority players, it remains to be seen. But what about the RTM? See three players, one of whom CSK could pick using their RTM.
Players CSK can target via RTM in IPL 2025 mega auction
Deepak Chahar
This swing superstar has been a phenomenal asset for the team but unfortunately has faced many injuries, which have often caused subtle disruptions in the plans. Looking at the top five players CSK might retain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, and MS Dhoni—it means that one player they could get back via RTM is Deepak Chahar. Chahar has been wonderful, but it will be interesting to see how things go. Last season, Chahar’s performance wasn’t up to par, mainly due to injuries, he failed to play for the full season, and now since CSK will look to put things on line, which can only happen if every player plays consistently.
Rachin Ravindra
An absolute stroke player, this Indian-origin Kiwi is currently doing magic for New Zealand. He performed well last season, providing solid starts in the first six overs, but couldn’t capitalise on those opportunities. CSK bought him last season for ₹1.8 crore. But chances are that CSK will move forward with five priority players, and for now, Rachin may not be on that list. However, since there are no limitations on acquiring foreign players, CSK could consider using their RTM to secure Rachin Ravindra.
Shivam Dube
Can Shivam Dube secure a spot in the top five first picks? This star all-rounder had an impressive season with the bat, but since then, he has struggled with his form and hasn’t performed well for the Indian team. Looking at the retention scenario for CSK, they surely need a fiery all-rounder, but his lack of recent performances diminishes his chances of being among the first five names. However, he could still be considered through the RTM option. It will be interesting to see how things go for him.
