World’s biggest circket league IPL 2025 is less than four months away, and all the teams have already assembled their best squads. Similarly, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have built a balanced team by bringing back some of their former players like Sam Curran and R Ashwin. They have also shown faith in a few old squad members like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja and Rachin Ravindra. However, CSK faces a big question about their opening combination, which is, who should partner with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad at the top of the order? Let’s explore the possible options.
Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra could be one of the top choices to open the innings with Ruturaj Gaikwad. Last season, Ravindra played 10 matches, scoring 222 runs at a strike rate of 160.86, including one half-century. He smashed 12 sixes and 8 fours and seemed to thrive on the Chennai pitches. His chemistry with Ruturaj was evident, but it was the only time Ravindra opened the innings for CSK.
Looking at his overall T20 stats, Ravindra has opened the innings 12 times, scoring 228 runs, which is a more than average performance. While his adaptability and skills add value to the team, CSK might consider exploring other options for greater stability.
Devon Conway
Despite backing Rachin Ravindra last season, CSK might turn to Devon Conway who is their classical opener. Conway is a proven performer and a regular opener for New Zealand. He has a good T20 record. In 85 innings, he has amassed over 3,000 runs, including 28 fifties and two hundreds, with a strike rate of 134.5.
Conway is known for anchoring innings and playing big knocks, which makes him an ideal candidate for the opener’s role. Given his experience and consistency, CSK is likely to rely on Conway at the top.
Rare possibility: Ruturaj at no. 3?
There’s also a rare but intriguing possibility of Ruturaj Gaikwad moving to No. 3, with Ravindra and Conway opening the innings. Both Kiwi batters share a good understanding and could form a formidable partnership. Ruturaj, who is comfortable at No. 3, can adapt to this role seamlessly.
This strategy might offer CSK more flexibility, allowing them to maximise their resources at the top. However, it remains to be seen whether the team management is willing to experiment with their captain’s batting position.
The biggest challenge for CSK will be deciding on their opening combination. While Conway appears to be the first choice, Rachin Ravindra’s style adds an exciting dimension to the team. Whether CSK opts for stability or flexibility, their decision will undoubtedly have a big impact on their campaign.
