The five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) always start the IPL edition as the favourites. They will surely continue their known and powerful reputation in the upcoming seasons. 

CSK started the IPL 2025 mega auction with the remaining purse value of INR 55 crore after retaining five players, four capped and one uncapped, before the pre-auction retention (officially deducted INR 65 crore). 

While CSK closely missed out on the IPL 2024 playoffs, they will surely want to maintain their top-four finishing consistency in the upcoming seasons with strong and dependable squads. 

Pre Auction Retentions

(Capped)

Ruturaj Gaikwad (Indian): INR 18 Crore

Ravindra Jadeja (Indian): INR 18 Crore

Matheesha Pathirana (Sri Lankan): INR 13 Crore

Shivam Dube (Indian): INR 12 Crore

(Uncapped)

MS Dhoni (Indian): INR 4 Crore

Mega Auction Buys

Noor Ahmed (Afghanistan): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 10 crore

Ravichandran Ashwin (Indian): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 9.75 crore

Devon Conway (New Zealander): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 6.25 crore

Khaleel Ahmed (Indian): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 4.80 crore   

RTM Rachin Ravindra (New Zealander): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 4.00 crore

Rahul Tripathi (Indian): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 3.40 crore

Anshul Kamboj (Indian): Base price INR 30 lakh – Bid won INR 3.40 crore

Sam Curran (English): Base price INR 2 crore – Bid won INR 2.40 crore

Vijay Shankar (India): Base price INR 30 lakh – Bid won INR 1.20 crore

Mukesh Choudhary (India): Base price INR 30 lakh – Bid won INR 30 lakh

Chennai Super Kings is one such franchise that has enhanced the fame and definition of the Indian Premier League. Being a five-time champions side helmed under the captain cool, MS Dhoni, the Super Kings are prominent for the gameplay and their humongous fanbase. But, they had a forgettable 2024 stint, as they had closely missed qualifying for the playoffs, citing significant issues regarding players' inconsistency and the injury of leading campaigners.

But, with the Mega Auction coming ahead, the Yellove army will get a chance to restructure their team and plan for the long term, as a few of them from the roster will likely play their last in the times ahead. Based on the released retention list and voids present on the side, here is a list of the five players that Chennai Super Kings should try for in the coming 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant should be on the team's player acquisition plans' significant target list. The primary reason behind this would be evident amongst several cricket fanatics. With Mahendra Singh Dhoni possibly playing his last IPL after his cornerstone contributions to the cricketing world, Chennai Super Kings would be eager to acquire the services of an emerging wicketkeeper batter.

Since his IPL inception, Pant has been part of Delhi Capitals for over seven editions, implying his pivotal impact creation for his roster. But, with him parting ways from his career shuttler, it will be intriguing to see if Rishabh Pant would be a part of a team with his idol. After making a stellar comeback from a life-threatening injury, he has made 446 runs in 13 matches, averaging over 41. 

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the cornerstones of the Indian spinners ecosystem. But, before making a mark on the International cricket space, Ashwin was a part of the Yellow squad since its inception. He evolved as one of the best spinmeisters across all game formats, especially in the red-ball format.

Though Ashwin has played for four teams, Rajasthan Royals being the recent one, his consistency and intent must be the major USP. Also, with his recent dominance as one of the best bowlers in test cricket, the local boy wouldn't mind returning to the side that has given him all. The Super Kings will target to have an experienced spinner, and he can prove to be their best option. In the previous edition, he had scalped nine wickets in 15 matches at an economy of eight. 

Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar would be one of the players under the Super Kings auction management's auction radar, thanks to his impeccable performance in their recent whitewash campaign by New Zealand, where his spinning efforts went in vain. Many fanatics would vividly remember his batting contributions in the nick of time during the previous 2022 Border-Gavasker Trophy down under.

Sundar, who played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024, was not retained by his franchise and will be auctioned off. With Chennai retaining Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube ahead of the auction, another all-rounder could do them good. With the side requiring a long-term emerging spinner, Sundar can cater to those needs, and his local roots act as the cherry on top. In 2024, he didn't get a chance to display his calibre and scalped just one wicket in two appearances. 

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top 5 Best Retentions during the 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Devon Conway

Devon Conway is seen to be one of the players that the five-time winners may exercise their Right-to-Match (RTM) option or pay big for in the mega auction. The group is recognised for its stability and consistency and has placed a high faith level in its overseas players, with Devon Conway has maintained that tradition.

He missed the IPL 2024 season with a thumb injury, and his absence contributed to the franchise's failure to qualify for the playoffs. The Southern side should be eager to get him back into the auction. In his memorable 2023 stint, he has made a colossal 672 runs in 16 matches, averaging over 49.

Rachin Ravindran

Rachin Ravindra is currently one of the intriguing and emerging stars in world cricket, and he's mainly performed brilliantly in the Indian sub-continent, with his recent performance in the clean sweep India test series and the 2023 World Cup.

A calm demeanour, 24 years of age, a match-winner with the bat, and a handy spinner – all elements of Rachin Ravindra are perfect for the team to acquire him for long-term purposes. Though he had a shaky start in his first IPL appearance, his calibre signifies promise, which the Chennai Super Kings highly need. In 2024, he has made just 220 runs in ten matches, but it will be a terrain of a task for the side as many sides are willing to bid for him in the forthcoming Mega Auction.

The deadline for IPL retentions has been surpassed and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made the decision to retain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni who will now feature as an uncapped player following his international retirement in 2019. This gives them the cushion of a staggering 55 crore in their purse enabling them to recruit a new face in the next IPL season. 

While their attention may be on the star wicket-keeper batter Rishab Pant who is all but released by the Delhi Capitals, the Chennai-based outfit may face stiff competition as other franchises will also be vying to secure his services. In such a scenario, the veteran spin-bowling all-rounder Ravi Ashwin emerges as a likely candidate who CSK could be after in this mega auction. The 38-year-old was a key figure in the CSk squad before parting ways in 2015. 

A potential return on the cards for Ravi Ashwin

According to emerging reports, Ashwin made a startling confession to play for his old franchise Chennai Super Kings. Ashwin was previously associated with the Yellow Brigade since the inception of IPL in 2008. During his formative years, CSK played a pivotal role in shaping his professional cricketing career. He evolved as a player under the leadership of MS Dhoni and was primarily responsible for driving the dominance of the franchise in the early 2010s.

Ashwin has claimed an astonishing 120 wickets for the CSK at a very competitive average of 23.7 between the period of 2009 and 2015. He is the third-highest wicket-taker for CSK in the IPL and is more than a handy customer with the bat lower down the order. Ashwin’s addition to the CSK squad can certainly bolster CSK’s spin bowling department. The off-spinner can operate in tandem with Ravindra Jadeja to wreak havoc on the batters on a spin-friendly Chennai pitch. 

Furthermore, the report suggests that CSK is likely to utilize their Right to Match (RTM) card for the experienced New Zealand opener, Devon Conway. The left-handed batsman has delivered commendable performances for the Chennai franchise, accumulating 924 runs at an impressive average of 48.63 and a strike rate of 141.28.

Ravindra Jadeja's journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a tale of consistency and impact, marked by his evolution into a premier all-rounder and a core player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Starting his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals, Jadeja has come a long way, cementing his place in CSK since 2013 and becoming a vital cog in their lineup. His influence on the field is undeniable—whether it's with the bat, ball, or his electrifying fielding, Jadeja’s all-round abilities have made him a match-winner and a fan favorite. His contributions have been instrumental in CSK's success over the years, and he has often delivered in crucial moments, making him a go-to player for captain MS Dhoni.

As a bowler, Jadeja’s stats showcase his effectiveness, particularly in the middle overs, where he has been exceptionally reliable. Across 211 IPL matches, Jadeja has bowled 638.1 overs, conceding 4,864 runs and claiming 160 wickets with an impressive economy of 7.62. In the middle overs alone, he has bowled 529.5 overs, taken 125 wickets at an economy of 7.41, and maintained a strong strike rate of 25.4. His ability to contain runs and take crucial wickets during these key phases of the game has made him invaluable for CSK, effectively building pressure on the opposition. Jadeja’s consistency, coupled with his knack for breaking partnerships, has solidified his reputation as one of the most dependable spinners in IPL history.

See Also: Should SRH Retain Klaasen for ₹23 Crore? A Worthy Investment?

Does Jadeja’s Performance Justify an ₹18 Crore Retention?

Ravindra Jadeja, often hailed as one of the most versatile all-rounders in modern cricket, has had a storied career that encapsulates the essence of adaptability and skill. His recent performance statistics provide a window into his contributions to the Indian cricket team. With 30 innings under his belt, Jadeja has taken 28 wickets at an average of 27.11 and an economy rate of 7.51. While these figures might not place him at the very top of the bowling charts, they tell a story of consistent performance, especially in high-pressure situations.

In the realm of limited-overs cricket, Jadeja has evolved into a key player for India, not just with the ball but also as a lower-order batsman. His ability to turn games around with crucial partnerships and aggressive batting has made him a valuable asset. Despite a strike rate of 21.64 and 39 fours and 32 sixes, his batting is often overshadowed by his bowling prowess. Nonetheless, his all-round capabilities provide the Indian team with a balanced attack, allowing for flexibility in both batting and bowling departments.

When analyzing his bowling style, Jadeja stands out for his accuracy and control. With a dot ball percentage of 29.87, he demonstrates an ability to build pressure on opposing batsmen, forcing them into making mistakes. His experience and tactical acumen on the field make him a formidable opponent, capable of breaking partnerships at critical junctures. This attribute is invaluable in T20 and ODI formats, where matches can pivot on single deliveries.

Jadeja's contributions extend beyond mere numbers; they include his fielding prowess, often hailed as one of the best in the world. His athleticism and sharp reflexes add another layer to his all-round capabilities. A match-winner in his own right, Jadeja's presence on the field inspires confidence in his teammates and instills fear in his opponents. His ability to impact games across formats has made him a lynchpin for the Indian cricket team.

Given his track record, the question arises: is Ravindra Jadeja worth ₹18 crore? The answer seems to be an emphatic yes. Jadeja's overall impact on the game—combined with his impressive statistics, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure—justifies his price tag. In a cricketing landscape where all-rounders hold immense value, Jadeja's skills make him an essential component of any team, reinforcing the belief that he is worth every penny of his contract.

See Also: Tony de Zorzi Powers South Africa's Steady March Toward the WTC Finals

Five-time IPL champions, the joint record holder, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have revealed their retained players before the mega auction.

Chennai Super Kings are among the most consistent teams in the tournament history. Apart from winning the IPL trophies in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023, they also finished as runners-up five more times (2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2019). 

CSK failed to finish in the top four only three times, including the last IPL season (2024), where they just missed out on the playoff qualification after finishing in the fifth position. 

CSK also won two now-defunct Champions League T20 in the 2010 and 2014 editions.  

After winning the IPL 2023, MS Dhoni stepped down from the leadership role, under whom the team achieved all seven trophies’ successes (five IPL trophies and two Champions League T20 trophies). Ruturaj Gaikwad led the CSK team in the IPL 2024. 

Chennai Super Kings player retention

CSK retained five players for the IPL 2025 by spending 65 crore. They retained four capped players and one uncapped player. For the uncapped player, they used the concept of a player missing international cricket for five years. Meanwhile, they have the INR 55 crore remaining purse for the IPL 2025 mega auction. 

(Capped)

Ruturaj Gaikwad (Indian): INR 18 Crore

Ravindra Jadeja (Indian): INR 18 Crore

Matheesha Pathirana (Sri Lankan): INR 13 Crore

Shivam Dube (Indian): INR 12 Crore

(Uncapped)

MS Dhoni (Indian): INR 4 Crore

Right-to-Match (RTM) card availability for the mega auction

1 capped player or 1 uncapped player

As the IPL 2025 retention deadline looms, excitement and suspense are mounting, particularly surrounding Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions. The franchise recently sent fans into a frenzy with a mysterious post on social media, suggesting potential hints about their top retention choices. With emojis of a helicopter, sword, star, and rocket, CSK’s post read, “The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!” sparking fans to speculate on the players CSK might retain for the upcoming season.

Fans decode CSK’s hints: Dhoni and Jadeja at the top of predictions

Social media erupted with fan theories, with most readers interpreting the “helicopter” as a clear nod to MS Dhoni, famously associated with his iconic helicopter shot, and the “sword” likely representing Ravindra Jadeja, known for his signature sword-swinging celebration. The “star” and “rocket” emojis have led to further debate, with fans guessing Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, and rising talent Rachin Ravindra might also make the cut.

While CSK has yet to confirm these speculations, sources close to the franchise suggest that retaining Dhoni, their legendary captain, is almost certain. Dhoni, who led the team to multiple titles and an unshakable fanbase, has hinted at continuing his journey in the IPL. In a recent event, he expressed his desire to “enjoy the last few years of cricket” without the intensity of his past commitments, adding, “When you play cricket as a profession, it's hard to enjoy it just like a game… That’s my aim now.”

See Also: Kohli set to lead RCB in IPL 2025: Reports

💛😍🔥🤝✅🌟
💪🧑‍🍳⚡🦁🕸️⚓
🚀🧨🏏🥊🛶🎯
🏓🎤🎩⏳🚁🔍
🛡️⚔️🧸🥝🎠🤞
The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!

Tap the 🔗 - https://t.co/MNwIFDgxBK
and play the #DeadlineDay now! #WhistlePodu #Retentions2025

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 29, 2024

Shall we finalize with this ? 😉 pic.twitter.com/1VutWt80zF

— R S கோபி (@PortentVlogger) October 29, 2024

Column wise
1st - Rutu
2nd - Jadeja
3rd - Dube 🤔
4th - Rachin
5th - Thala
6th - Pathirana

— Beast (@Beast__07_) October 29, 2024

Jadeja
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) October 29, 2024

Got It ✨

Jaddu
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

It's Correct?

— Aravind (@TVFP2) October 29, 2024

Star Boy - Ruturaj Gaikwad
Cook - Matheesha Pathirana
Helicopter - MS Dhoni
Sword - Ravindra Jadeja

Cracker yaara irukum!?

— Sharon Solomon (@BSharan_6) October 29, 2024

Dhoni’s plan for the upcoming season and CSK’s strategic decisions

The decision to retain Dhoni aligns with the hopes of CSK fans and franchise executives alike. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has voiced full support for Dhoni’s return, and discussions with team owner N. Srinivasan are expected soon to finalize their 2025 IPL squad. Dhoni’s experience, dedication, and leadership skills continue to be invaluable assets for CSK, both on and off the field.

Finalizing the retention list will also likely include young talents like Ruturaj Gaikwad, whose consistency as an opener has made him a fan favorite, and Matheesha Pathirana, a fast bowler with promising potential. Rachin Ravindra is another name circulating due to his impressive performances, making him a desirable choice for CSK’s future.

As anticipation builds, CSK’s fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, holding onto the hope that Dhoni will lead their beloved team for yet another season, aiming to bring the elusive IPL title back to Chennai. This blend of seasoned legends and emerging stars could be the ideal formula CSK needs for a powerful 2025 season.

Following the exit of MS Dhoni as a CSK skipper, speculations are rife around the veteran player's participation for the upcoming IPL season. As all teams prepare themselves to announce the list of their retainined players on October 31, Dhoni has casted light on his availability for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

Dhoni stepped down as a CSK skipper in the last season thus handing the captaincy baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Following the introduction of a resvied rule, CSK will have to option to retain him as an uncapped player. As per the latest amendments made by the govering body, franchises will now be able to retain any player who has retired from international cricket for up to five years as an uncapped player.

Speaking in a promotional event in Goa, Dhoni has admitted that he only has a few years of cricket left in him and wants to make the most of it. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, the 42-year-old wants to revist his good old days when he used to enjoy the sport as a child while at the same time balance his emotions and commitments to the game. 

CSK CEO, Kasi Viswanathan was more than happy to receive this positive news on the star wicketkeeper batter and looks forward to welcoming him with open hands ahead of the next season. He was quoted by Cricbuzz for saying the following: "When he is ready, what else do we want? We are happy."

Where will MS Dhoni bat in the batting order in IPL 2025?

As Dhoni now looks all set to feature in yet another IPL season, now the question arises around his position at the batting order. After stepping down from the captaincy duties last year, Dhoni was seen batting lower down the order. This was done as a precautionary measure to avoid further complications for him after a knee surgery operation. But the World Cup winning captain later clarified that this move was adopted to give yognsters more game time higher up the order in a bid to get them battle ready for the T20 World Cup.

Whether or not Dhoni will continue to bat at this order for the next season is something which remains to be seen. Dhoni has an illustrious IPL career spanning more than 264 matches with over 5243 runs. The former Indian skipper has been a loyal servant for the Chennai-based outfit since the inception of IPL in 2008. 

Since the end of the IPL 2024, cricket fans are desperate to know the future of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni. While the retention deadline is less than a week, fans can’t wait for Dhoni’s IPL future.

The 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni now plays only the IPL. So, his numerous fans are waiting to hear his decision, and we know what his fans want to hear. 

Watch: "I know about it. But I don't know the reason behind it" - MS Dhoni on his viral meme

When he is ready, what else (do) we want: CSK CEO

Cricbuzz has brought a report on it as Dhoni is most likely to play in the IPL 2025.

On Saturday, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz, "When he is ready, what else (do) we want? We are happy." 

In another TOI report, the former Indian captain hinted at continuing his IPL career. According to the TOI report, Dhoni said, "I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play. When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That's what I want to do. It's not easy.

"The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years. I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit."

However, the CSK team management still wants to talk with Dhoni directly before announcing this good news. While October 31 is the deadline for the IPL teams’ retention, CSK officials are likely to talk with Dhoni by October 28.

Dhoni will talk with CSK owner N Srinivasan soon. 

Dhoni can be retained by the CSK as an uncapped player due to the return of the old rule. However, in this case, Dhoni’s highest retention value can be only INR 4 crore. 

Retention favourites for CSK

Talking about CSK’s retention, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Matheesha Pathiran are the top favourite names. Shivam Dube and Devon Conway can also be considered for retention along with uncapped Sameer Rizvi. 

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK won five IPL trophies and two now-defunct Champions League T20 titles. After winning the IPL 2023 trophy, Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy role. 

Ruturaj Gaikwad led the CSK team in the IPL 2024, where they finished in fifth place as they just failed to reach the playoffs. 

Every IPL team is eagerly waiting for the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision on the IPL 2025 retention and mega auction date. There is no doubt that everyone is waiting to hear the news of MS Dhoni’s IPL future. 

MS Dhoni is a legend of the IPL and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Under his leadership, CSK won five IPL trophies and two now-defunct Champions League T20 trophies. The CSK fans can’t think of a CSK team without MS Dhoni.

The record-holder of the most IPL captaincies (226 matches), Dhoni, is also the only captain with 100 IPL wins as a captain (133 wins). 

SEE ALSO: Hardik Pandya eyeing to return Test cricket: Report

MS Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy role before the IPL 2024

Before the IPL 2024, Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy role of CSK as Ruturaj Gaikwad took the leadership role of the new generation of CSK.  

After the IPL 2024, there is no official news of Dhoni’s IPL future. Meanwhile, CSk fans are eagerly waiting to see the legend in the yellow jersey again. Dhoni is the second leading run-scorer for CSK as the right-handed batter has scored 5118 runs in 258 matches with an average of 39.06 and a strike rate of 139.45. He has hit 23 half-centuries for CSK. 

MS Dhoni can be retained in the lowest bid category

According to a recent RevSportzGlobal report, if the BCCI allows the franchises to retain a maximum of five players before the IPL 2025 mega auction, CSK can retain Dhoni in the lowest bid category as per a mutual agreement. 

The BCCI is likely to host the IPL 2025 mega auction in December outside India. The upcoming mega auction can also experience the return of Right to Match (RTM), which has mixed reactions. 

On the other hand, we can also experience the reintroduction of considering uncapped players who retired from international cricket for at least five years. If it returns, it will be helpful for CSK to retain Dhoni in this category. While CSK spent INR 12 crore to retain Dhoni for the IPL 2022, the franchise could previously retain an uncapped player only for INR 4 crore.