IPL 2025: 3 Areas MS Dhoni's CSK Failed To Rectify In The Mega Auction

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

CSK auction table and MS Dhoni [Source: @toisports, @YelloveVersions/x.com]CSK auction table and MS Dhoni [Source: @toisports, @YelloveVersions/x.com]

Chennai Super Kings have been the most consistent team in the IPL's history. They have always found ways to bring out their best in the most crucial games and have been among the toppers in most seasons. 

The CSK team's biggest strength has been how they approach auctions. During most seasons, they have looked to retain most of their core, and that has brilliantly paid off for them. In the IPL 2025 auction, CSK went in with the same strategy and succeeded in getting most of their trusted soldiers back. At the end of the auction, one might look at their squad and applaud the management for building up a less balanced side. However, there are a couple of combination problems that, if not tackled well, might haunt them during the IPL 2025. 

3. Lack Of Power Hitters In The Middle

Looking at CSK's probable batting combination, it seems that the team might lack some firepower in the middle. Rahul Tripathi's presence in the middle order gives the team the required dynamism, but it also makes him a crucial player, as he needs to show more consistency there than he has so far.

There is Shivam Dube in the middle-order who can destroy spinners with his power, but he often struggles to get a move on against quality spinners. And then there is MS Dhoni, whose entry point for the last couple of seasons has been in the last two or three overs of the innings. Alongside these batters, Jadeja, Hooda, and Vijay Shankar can chip in on their days.

It is not like they have no power hitter in the middle order, but Gaikwad will have to show great tactical brilliance to make things work. The entry point of the batters in the middle order will be crucial to how the chemistry is displayed on the field.

2. Lack Of Backup Openers

CSK has put together their trusted combination of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway for the opening slot. However, there seems to be a lack of backup opener. Yes, Rahul Tripathi is there on the side who can take up the role in case these players suffer an injury. In that case, Tripathi’s promotion up the order might disrupt the whole balance of the team. 

1. Absence Of Pathirana’s Partner In The Depth

Matheesha Pathirana will be CSK’s bet in the death overs. However, they lack a bowler who can pair up with him from the opposite end. They have Nathan Ellis, but making him a part of the playing 12 will be tough due to the four overseas limitations of IPL. CSK will have to depend on Sam Curran and Khaleel Ahmed in the death overs. Although these bowlers might prove effective at Chepauk, on flatter batting decks, strategising in the final overs might be a headache for the CSK skipper.