IPL 2025 Auction: 3 Players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Might Target Through RTM Card

As the IPL 2025 mega auction draws near, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing to bolster their squad with their available resources. The five-time champions have retained five key players for the upcoming season, including captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, pacer Matheesha Pathirana, batter Shivam Dube, and legendary MS Dhoni.

With INR 55 crores in their purse and only one Right-To-Match (RTM) card at their disposal, CSK will be looking for strategic acquisitions to enhance their chances of another successful campaign. Here’s a look at three players CSK might use their RTM card on in the IPL 2025 mega auction.

3 Players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Might Target Through RTM Card

1. Devon Conway: The Consistent Opener

Devon Conway has been one of CSK’s most valuable overseas acquisitions in recent seasons. After two productive years with the team, the New Zealand opener has established himself as a crucial part of their batting lineup. Conway has racked up 924 runs in just 22 IPL innings, with an impressive average of 48. His nine half-centuries have been a key factor in CSK’s consistent performance.

Conway’s contribution was particularly significant during CSK’s title-winning campaign in 2023. His absence in the IPL 2024 season due to a thumb injury was a blow to the team, and many believe that it contributed to their failure to qualify for the playoffs. With the upcoming IPL 2025 season in mind, the Super Kings will be keen to bring back the experienced opener. If Conway is targeted by another franchise, CSK might not hesitate to use their RTM card to secure his services once again, given the stability and continuity he brings to the squad.

2. Rachin Ravindra: A Rising Star with All-Round Potential

Rachin Ravindra is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young players in international cricket. After a stellar 2023 World Cup, where he scored 578 runs, Ravindra’s stock in T20 cricket has risen significantly. His performances in the 2024 IPL were also impressive, with 222 runs from 10 games at a blistering strike rate of 160. Ravindra’s positive approach and ability to turn up in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset in any format of the game.

But Ravindra isn’t just a hard-hitting batter; his left-arm spin bowling is also a crucial part of his game. With 55 T20 wickets at an economy rate of 7.07, Ravindra has shown that he can be an effective bowler in the shortest format, making him a perfect all-rounder for CSK’s balanced squad. At just 24 years old, Ravindra is the type of player CSK could look to build their future around. Given his maturity and versatility, he could be the ideal player for the franchise to target through their RTM card in IPL 2025.

3. Deepak Chahar: A Proven Match-Winner

Deepak Chahar has been an integral part of CSK’s success in recent years, particularly during their title victories in 2018 and 2021. A powerplay specialist, Chahar has the ability to swing the ball both ways and take early wickets, which is critical in the IPL’s high-pressure environment. He also provides value with the bat, capable of hitting lower down the order when needed.

Chahar’s IPL career has, however, been hampered by injuries in recent years. After missing the entire 2022 season, he has only managed to feature in 18 games over the last two seasons. Despite this, Chahar’s ability to take wickets and provide stability with the ball has kept him in the mix for CSK. The 31-year-old has recently shown good form, including a five-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy against Himachal Pradesh, further highlighting his match-winning potential. Given the trust CSK has placed in Chahar over the years, they may be tempted to use their RTM card to bring him back, especially if he is targeted by a rival franchise.

CSK’s Strategy for IPL 2025 Auction

CSK’s strategy going into the IPL 2025 auction will likely revolve around continuity, stability, and experience. The franchise has always been known for backing players they trust, and their recent retentions reflect that philosophy. With the RTM card, CSK can ensure they retain the players who have contributed to their success and are integral to their future plans.

While the likes of Conway, Ravindra, and Chahar represent distinct styles of play, all three players possess qualities that align with CSK’s ethos—dependability, versatility, and the ability to deliver under pressure. Whether it’s Conway’s solid opening partnership, Ravindra’s all-round brilliance, or Chahar’s powerplay prowess, CSK will have a tough choice to make when deciding who to bring back using their RTM card.

The IPL 2025 auction will be a defining moment for CSK as they look to add to their already formidable squad. With one RTM card at their disposal, they will need to make a strategic decision that strengthens their team for the upcoming season. The three players mentioned above are all capable of making an immediate impact, and it will be interesting to see how CSK plays their hand in the auction to secure their services.

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