CSK Retention List 2025 | IPL 2025 Retention Strategy and Auction Plans of Chennai Super Kings

As the IPL 2025 season approaches, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for a strategic retention process and the highly anticipated mega auction. With MS Dhoni’s recent confirmation of his participation, CSK is now positioned to lock in a solid player core, blending experienced veterans and emerging stars. This article explores CSK’s probable retention strategies, the potential use of Right-to-Match (RTM) cards, targeted acquisitions, and how these moves align with CSK’s enduring legacy in IPL.

CSK’s Retention Strategy: Core Players for 2025

1. MS Dhoni (Uncapped Retention)
   With Dhoni committed to playing in IPL 2025, CSK’s management is relieved to secure their legendary captain as a mentor and player. As an “uncapped” player in IPL terms, Dhoni’s retention price will be only INR 4 crore, freeing up significant budget for other core acquisitions. While Dhoni may take on a more supportive, guiding role on-field, his expertise and tactical acumen will be invaluable for CSK’s young roster​

2. Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain)
   Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership has brought him to the forefront as a foundational figure for CSK’s future. With strong batting performances and a calm on-field presence, Gaikwad is expected to continue as captain. Reports suggest CSK will offer him a lucrative retention package around INR 18 crore, a testament to his status as a future CSK icon​

3. Ravindra Jadeja 
   Jadeja’s all-round capabilities make him a crucial retention for CSK, providing strategic versatility across batting, bowling, and fielding. With Gaikwad and Jadeja retained as core players, CSK preserves a mix of youthful energy and experience. He is likely to receive an equivalent contract to Gaikwad’s, underlining his immense value to the franchise​

4. Matheesa Pathirana
   Sri Lankan pacer Matheesa Pathirana has emerged as a vital asset for CSK, particularly in recent seasons where his ability to bowl at high speeds and with precision under pressure has shone through. Retaining Pathirana strengthens CSK’s bowling arsenal, addressing a historic gap in pace attack depth​

5. Shivam Dube
   Dube’s impressive power-hitting ability has added a new dimension to CSK’s middle-order batting. As a reliable six-hitter and critical player for pacing the middle overs, Dube is another candidate for retention, providing CSK with batting stability through his proven record in high-stakes matches

CSK has historically prioritized experience, leadership, and players who align with Dhoni’s strategic vision. The franchise has often focused on building a cohesive team core rather than relying solely on marquee names. This approach has led to CSK’s remarkable consistency, with four IPL titles under Dhoni’s captaincy. The 2025 auction will likely see CSK continuing this tradition, emphasizing a balanced team structure with an eye on emerging talents.

With Dhoni’s confirmed participation and a strong retention core, CSK is positioned to maintain its competitive edge in IPL 2025. By strategically using RTMs and targeting promising talents from other franchises, CSK can create a squad that combines seasoned IPL veterans and rising stars. This balanced approach could make CSK a formidable force once again, as they pursue another championship to further cement their IPL legacy.

CSK has consistently surprised fans with unexpected purchases in IPL auctions, often opting for overlooked talents who later become central figures in the squad. This approach, rooted in the franchise's philosophy of team stability and Dhoni's keen eye for potential, has brought many surprise buys that evolved into valuable assets. Some notable examples include:

1. Deepak Chahar (2018)
   CSK bought Chahar for INR 80 lakhs in 2018 when he was relatively unknown. This proved to be a masterstroke, as Chahar became a reliable powerplay bowler with his ability to swing the ball early. His standout performance across seasons and versatility made him a core part of CSK’s bowling unit​

2. Shane Watson (2018)
   Though Watson had shown prowess in the IPL, injuries and inconsistent form led many teams to overlook him in the 2018 auction. CSK invested INR 4 crore in Watson, which turned out to be one of their best moves. Watson's century in the 2018 final helped CSK clinch their third IPL title, proving his value as a big-match player​

3. Imran Tahir (2018)
   While Tahir’s age was a concern, CSK took a calculated risk by signing the South African spinner. His enthusiasm, energy, and effectiveness on slow pitches proved crucial, especially at CSK’s home ground in Chennai. Tahir’s wicket-taking abilities became a major asset, as he even earned the Purple Cap in the 2019 season​

4. Ambati Rayudu (2018)
   After being released by Mumbai Indians, Rayudu found a new lease on his IPL career with CSK, who bought him for INR 2.2 crore. Rayudu responded with stellar performances, often as a top-order batsman. His ability to stabilize and accelerate the innings gave CSK flexibility in their batting order.

5. Matheesa Pathirana (2022)
   Known as the "Junior Malinga," Sri Lankan pacer Pathirana was a lesser-known name when CSK signed him. His slinging action and ability to deliver lethal yorkers earned him a spot, and his success since has made him a valuable bowler for CSK, particularly in the death overs​

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may be inclined to focus on purchasing players like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Maheesh Theekshana in the IPL 2025 auction. Under the guidance of coach Stephen Fleming and captain MS Dhoni, these players have the potential to become match-winners, contributing to CSK’s versatile game plan that balances experience with emerging talent.

• Devon Conway
  Already a proven T20 talent, Conway has been consistent in the IPL and international cricket, especially in high-stakes games. As a left-handed batter, he brings flexibility to CSK’s top order, ensuring solidity and an aggressive edge. In IPL 2024, he stood out with his composed yet dynamic style, scoring 650+ runs and showcasing his ability to adapt to different pitches. His reliability at the crease will allow CSK to build their innings strategically, especially on slower tracks at Chepauk. With Dhoni and Fleming’s backing, Conway could solidify his role as a dependable opener who can anchor and accelerate when needed​

• Rachin Ravindra
  The young Kiwi all-rounder has gained recognition for his powerful hitting and effective left-arm spin. Known for his impactful performances in T20 leagues and the New Zealand national team, Ravindra’s skills make him a valuable addition to CSK’s middle order. His aggressive batting style, particularly against spin, could address CSK’s need for a reliable finisher, while his bowling could provide a steady option for Dhoni to control the middle overs. Given Fleming’s familiarity with New Zealand talent and Dhoni’s support, Ravindra has the potential to become a breakthrough star for CSK​

• Maheesh Theekshana
  Theekshana, a Sri Lankan spinner, could be another strategic buy to reinforce CSK’s spin department. His ability to deliver in pressure situations has made him a crucial player for the Sri Lankan T20 team. Theekshana’s unique skills are well-suited to CSK’s spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk. Having shown immense promise in recent IPL seasons with economical spells and timely wickets, he could be a strong candidate to take up key overs for CSK, alongside established bowlers. Fleming and Dhoni’s mentorship would help him develop into a potent T20 bowler for CSK, especially on home pitches​

Together, these players could form a balanced unit, combining power-hitting, reliable bowling, and match awareness, essential for CSK’s gameplay.

These acquisitions underline CSK's strategy of investing in players with potential for growth, often reviving careers or unearthing hidden talent. With this approach, CSK may make more surprise moves in the 2025 auction, potentially bidding for emerging players from other leagues or overlooked domestic talent that fits their team dynamics.

CSK’s IPL Legacy: A History of Consistent Excellence

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has established itself as one of the most successful teams in IPL history, with a legacy of four IPL titles and multiple playoff appearances. Their consistency is attributed to the strong leadership of MS Dhoni, the tactical acumen of coach Stephen Fleming, and their focus on team cohesion rather than relying solely on star power

CSK’s success lies in the consistency and unity of their players, backed by a core group that has performed across multiple seasons. This balance between experienced players and fresh talents has defined CSK’s legacy, allowing them to remain competitive and adapt to evolving T20 dynamics. Looking ahead to IPL 2025, CSK’s retention strategy and auction buys, particularly with players like Conway, Ravindra, and Theekshana, aim to extend this legacy, providing a blend of experience and youth that could see CSK challenging for the title once again.

IPL 2024 Squad of Chennai Super Kings:

1. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹16.00 Cr.
2. Daryl Mitchell – ₹14.00 Cr.
3. Deepak Chahar – ₹14.00 Cr.
4. MS Dhoni – ₹12.00 Cr.
5. Sameer Rizvi – ₹8.40 Cr.
6. Ruturaj Gaikwad – ₹8.00 Cr.
7. Moeen Ali – ₹6.00 Cr.
8. Shivam Dube – ₹4.00 Cr.
9. Shardul Thakur – ₹4.00 Cr.
10. Mustafizur Rahman – ₹2.00 Cr.
11. Mitchell Santner – ₹1.90 Cr.
12. Rachin Ravindra – ₹1.80 Cr.
13. Rajvardhan Hangargekar – ₹1.50 Cr.
14. Prashant Solanki – ₹1.20 Cr.
15. Devon Conway – ₹1.00 Cr.
16. Maheesh Theekshana – ₹0.70 Cr.
17. Nishant Sindhu – ₹0.60 Cr.
18. Ajinkya Rahane – ₹0.50 Cr.
19. Matheesha Pathirana – ₹0.20 Cr.
20. Shaik Rasheed – ₹0.20 Cr.
21. Ajay Mandal – ₹0.20 Cr.
22. Simarjeet Singh – ₹0.20 Cr.
23. Mukesh Choudhary – ₹0.20 Cr.
24. Tushar Deshpande – ₹0.20 Cr.
25. Aravelly Rao – ₹0.20 Cr.