Players CSK Is Likely To Retain Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

As the IPL Governing Council (GC) released the new retention rules ahead of IPL 2025, here's a look at the possible list of players that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) might go for before next season.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council (GC) released the new rules regarding the retention policies ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, which is likely to be held around the later stages of November, 2024. With the mega action time nearing, there is a lot of talk about what strategies could the IPL teams employ while assembling their best-possible team. And one team that seems to be the cynosure of such discussions is Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

IPL teams can now retain up to six players via direct retention or through the use of Right to Match (RTM) option, with a maximum of five capped players and a maximum of 2 uncapped players. The auction purse for each IPL team has also been increased to Rs 120 crores. Additionally, the ‘uncapped player’ rule finds its way back into the fray. The rule allows Indian players who have retired or haven’t been part of India’s playing 11, or have not held a BCCI contract for the past five years to play as uncapped players. Moreover, the salary slab for an uncapped retained player is Rs 4 crore.

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The ‘uncapped player’ rule could solve the long-standing question of the CSK franchise — does MS Dhoni still play the IPL and if yes, how do they accommodate him into the team?

With that said, let’s look at the possible retentions that CSK might go for ahead of the IPL 2025.

Five Players CSK Could Retain Ahead Of IPL 2025

MS Dhoni (Uncapped)

The new rule will allow CSK to retain MS Dhoni for Rs 4 crore. There is no uncertainty regarding Dhoni's future with the Yellow Army, as he is expected to be retained by the team. While Dhoni doesn't face many balls in the tournament, his on-field presence remains impactful for the franchise. If he opts to play in IPL 2025, Dhoni will be a sure-shot retention choice for the ‘uncapped player’ and earn Rs 4 crore.

Ruturaj Gaikwad (Retention)

CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was appointed team captain last season and while CSK did not qualify for the playoffs, they are expected to stay with him as the team’s captaincy choice. If chosen as CSK's first retention pick, Ruturaj will be paid a substantial Rs 18 crore. Previously, CSK retained him for Rs 6 crore ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, but now the franchise are likely to pay Rs 18 crore for his retention.

Ravindra Jadeja (Retention)

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been a key part of the CSK squad since joining ahead of IPL 2012. Known for his impactful contributions with both bat and ball, as well as his game-changing fielding, Jadeja has consistently delivered in crucial moments and is likely to be retained by the franchise. 

Matheesha Pathirana (Retention)

Young Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana has been a key player for CSK since joining in 2022 and is expected to remain a part of the team. Under the guidance of MS Dhoni, he has developed significantly as a bowler, becoming a valuable asset to the team. Pathirana is seen as a promising part of CSK’s future core, making his retention ahead of IPL 2025 a strong possibility.

Shivam Dube (RTM)

Shivam Dube, the Indian all-rounder, has experienced a significant rise in his career since joining CSK. His strong performances in recent seasons are likely to secure him a spot on CSK's retention list ahead of IPL 2025, but the team might go for the option of using the RTM in order to secure the services of Dube.