Published By: Sanchari Das

From Dhoni to Gaikwad: Crafting CSK's Top Five Retention Strategies for IPL 2025

As Chennai Super Kings gear up for the 2025 auction, striking the perfect balance between experience and fresh talent is vital to a triumphant return

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a powerhouse with five IPL titles, faces a challenging yet exciting task as they prepare for the 2025 auction. After a disappointing 2024 season where they missed the playoffs, the franchise has the chance to rebuild and focus on key retentions. With a maximum of six retention slots available, half of those seem straightforward, but the rest present a challenge. CSK needs to balance experience with future potential, making every decision count. In this article, we'll explore five potential retention combinations that could ensure CSK remains a competitive force in the upcoming IPL season.

Keeping the core intact

The first and most apparent combination for CSK involves retaining its core players. Ruturaj Gaikwad (₹18 crore), Ravindra Jadeja (₹18 crore), and MS Dhoni (₹4 crore—uncapped) are no-brainers when it comes to retention. Despite being a legendary figure, MS Dhoni is considered "uncapped" for IPL retention purposes. The IPL rule states that any player who hasn't played international cricket for India in the last five years falls under this category.

Dhoni last represented India in July 2019, making him eligible for this clause. Gaikwad is their best batter and new captain; Jadeja is an all-round superstar; and Dhoni, despite being uncapped, is the heart of the team. Adding Matheesha Pathirana (₹14 crore), Rachin Ravindra (₹11 crore), and Rajvardhan Hangargekar (₹4 crore—uncapped) ensures a strong balance of experience and rising talent.

Prioritising the future

CSK could opt for a future-focused strategy. Retaining Gaikwad and Jadeja keeps two key players at the forefront, while younger stars like Matheesha Pathirana and Rachin Ravindra help strengthen the future. Ravindra's ability to handle both spin and pace on tricky Chepauk pitches makes him a long-term asset. Uncapped players like Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Simarjeet Singh (₹4 crore) round out the retention list, giving CSK a promising core that can develop into a dominant force.

Balancing experience with youth

A combination that balances proven performers with youthful energy could work well. Gaikwad, Jadeja, and Dhoni would remain pillars of the squad. Shivam Dube (₹11 crore), the explosive middle-order batter, can be retained for his consistent six-hitting ability. Pathirana would provide overseas bowling strength, while Hangargekar offers youthful bowling power. This mix ensures experience and youth in key areas, setting up CSK for immediate success and future growth.

Strengthening overseas power

CSK could place more emphasis on overseas players while still keeping their Indian stars. Gaikwad, Jadeja, and Dhoni form the backbone. Retaining Pathirana, the Sri Lankan death-bowling specialist is critical for overseas strength. Rachin Ravindra (₹11 crore) brings versatility as a batter and bowler. Hangargekar completes the list, giving CSK a solid mix of international flair and Indian talent. This combination addresses vital areas like death bowling and middle-order stability.

Pace power with Simarjeet Singh

Focusing on building a solid bowling attack is crucial for CSK to stay competitive. Retaining Gaikwad, Jadeja, and Pathirana is key to shoring up batting and death bowling. Simarjeet Singh, who impressed with his pace in 2024, can be retained to develop into a frontline Indian pacer. Shivam Dube provides middle-order power, while Hangargekar rounds off the team as an emerging bowling all-rounder. This combination ensures that CSK has a formidable bowling unit while maintaining batting depth.

The Dhoni legacy approach

MS Dhoni continues to be central to CSK's plans, both on the field and as a mentor, as he was the skipper with 5 IPL trophies. Retaining Gaikwad and Jadeja provides the perfect balance of experience and leadership. Pathirana adds vital death bowling strength, while Simarjeet Singh emerges as another crucial bowler. Hangargeka ensures youth development in the all-rounder department. This combination provides stability with Dhoni's presence while Gaikwad grows into his leadership role alongside a strong bowling core.

Full retention focus

Some may wonder why CSK wouldn't leave room for a Right to Match (RTM) card. The answer is simple: retaining Gaikwad, Jadeja, Pathirana, Dhoni, Hangargekar, and another promising player like Simarjeet Singh covers all bases. With a potent combination of batting, bowling, and leadership in place, there's no need for RTM. CSK can focus their auction strategy on adding depth without the risk of losing core players to other franchises.