Chennai Super Kings Squad Before IPL Mega Auction: Full Players List With Retention Price

Chennai Super Kings : As the IPL 2025 season approaches, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have finalized their list of retained players ahead of the mega auction. The four-time IPL champions, known for their experienced and strategic roster, made headlines by retaining MS Dhoni as an uncapped player at a surprisingly low cost of Rs 4 crore. This decision was made possible due to the revival of an old IPL rule that allows Indian players who haven’t represented India internationally in the past five years to be classified as uncapped.

Chennai Super Kings

While Dhoni’s retention undoubtedly brings excitement to fans, CSK’s approach shows a clear intent to maintain a balanced mix of experienced players and rising stars. Along with Dhoni, CSK retained key players including Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, and Shivam Dube. This core group is a blend of skill, leadership, and versatility, setting a solid foundation for CSK as they head into the auction to fill other roles. Chennai Super Kings

➥ Also Read: Six Players Chennai Super Kings Should Retain

Here’s a breakdown of CSK’s retained players, their roles, and the team’s auction strategy for the upcoming season.

Key Retentions and Their Significance

Each player retained by CSK brings unique strengths to the lineup, and the decision to keep these individuals reflects the team’s strategic priorities for IPL 2025. Chennai Super Kings

1. MS Dhoni – ₹4 crore: Retaining MS Dhoni as an uncapped player at Rs 4 crore is a masterstroke by CSK. Known for his unmatched leadership and experience, Dhoni remains a central figure for the franchise. His decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations, and his ability to nurture young talent have been instrumental in CSK’s success over the years. By retaining Dhoni at this value, CSK has not only secured their captain but also saved significant funds for the auction, which can be used to strengthen other areas of the squad.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad – ₹18 crore: Gaikwad, CSK’s dynamic opener, has been a revelation over the past few seasons. His consistency, quick scoring, and adaptability make him a crucial asset at the top of the order. Gaikwad has shown the ability to anchor innings as well as accelerate when required, providing CSK with a dependable start. Retaining Gaikwad also shows CSK’s commitment to building around young Indian talent.
3. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹18 crore: Jadeja is one of the most valuable all-rounders in T20 cricket, and his retention at Rs 18 crore highlights his importance to CSK’s lineup. Known for his left-arm spin, explosive batting, and electric fielding, Jadeja brings balance and versatility. His experience and match-winning ability in both the batting and bowling departments make him a crucial part of CSK’s strategy. Jadeja’s presence also strengthens CSK’s middle order and provides an additional bowling option.
4. Matheesha Pathirana – ₹13 crore: Pathirana, often dubbed as “Baby Malinga” for his sling-arm bowling style, adds depth to CSK’s pace attack. With his ability to bowl accurate yorkers and deceive batters with his unique bowling action, Pathirana is particularly effective in the death overs. His retention indicates CSK’s confidence in his growth potential and their desire to invest in a young, promising bowler who can excel under Dhoni’s guidance.
5. Shivam Dube – ₹12 crore: Dube’s retention reflects CSK’s emphasis on having power hitters in the middle order. Known for his six-hitting ability and all-round potential, Dube provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. His presence gives CSK an option to increase their scoring rate in the middle overs, which is crucial in T20 cricket. Retaining Dube also ensures CSK has a balanced roster that can adapt to different match scenarios.

Auction Strategy and Areas of Focus

With five key players retained, CSK heads into the auction with a clear understanding of its strengths and the gaps that need filling. Here’s what CSK is likely to focus on in the auction: Chennai Super Kings

• Middle-Order Stability: While Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja add depth to the middle order, CSK may look for an experienced middle-order batsman who can anchor the innings. This will allow the team to manage scoring rates and avoid collapses in high-stakes matches.
• Additional All-Rounder: Although Jadeja and Dube provide all-round options, an additional all-rounder would enhance CSK’s flexibility. An all-rounder capable of finishing games with the bat and chipping in with the ball would provide CSK with valuable depth.
• Wicketkeeper-Batsman: Dhoni’s retention is reassuring for fans, but given his age, CSK may look to groom a younger wicketkeeper-batsman who could learn from Dhoni and potentially transition into the role in the future. This would ensure continuity in the squad and maintain a strong core.
• Bowling Depth: CSK may seek another pace bowler to support Pathirana in the death overs, especially someone with experience who can bring balance and variety to the attack. Additionally, a quality spin-bowling option would complement Jadeja and add variety.

CSK Squad Summary and Auction Budget

Retained Players:

1. MS Dhoni – ₹4 crore
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad – ₹18 crore
3. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹18 crore
4. Matheesha Pathirana – ₹13 crore
5. Shivam Dube – ₹12 crore

Total Budget Remaining: To be finalized based on auction guidelines. Chennai Super Kings

CSK’s Prospects for IPL 2025

CSK’s strategy reflects a careful blend of experience and young talent. By retaining MS Dhoni, the franchise ensures strong leadership and a steadying presence. The emphasis on retaining Indian core players like Gaikwad and Jadeja shows CSK’s commitment to building a strong domestic core, while the retention of Pathirana and Dube underlines their focus on both power and versatility.

Heading into the auction, CSK’s priorities will likely include adding experience to the middle order, securing depth in the bowling department, and perhaps identifying Dhoni’s long-term successor. With Dhoni’s tactical acumen and the franchise’s history of shrewd auction decisions, CSK is well-positioned to build a squad capable of competing for their fifth IPL title. Chennai Super Kings

➥ Also Read: All Chennai Super Kings Retentions For IPL 2025

Conclusion

The Chennai Super Kings’ retentions for the IPL 2025 season reveal a well-thought-out strategy aimed at combining experience with emerging talent. By securing key players in various roles, CSK has set a solid foundation and now heads into the auction with a balanced budget to strengthen their squad further. The choice to retain Dhoni as an uncapped player not only reflects a savvy financial decision but also symbolizes CSK’s respect and reliance on their iconic captain. Chennai Super Kings

Fans can expect a dynamic and resilient squad this season, with a blend of explosive batting, reliable all-rounders, and an innovative bowling attack. With a solid retention plan in place, CSK looks ready to embrace the challenges of IPL 2025 and continue their legacy as one of the league’s most successful teams.