CSK Retained Players 2025: 5 Capped and 1 Uncapped

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to grow in excitement and intensity, the 2025 season promises to be a significant one with a mega auction in store. Just like every other franchise, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK), will make crucial decisions regarding the players they want to retain before heading into the auction.

With a successful history behind them and a well-established fan base, CSK will undoubtedly aim to keep their strongest players while preparing for the future. Ahead of the fresh IPL season, Chennai will likely focus on keeping players who have shown their value and can help the team succeed. It will be important for them to maintain a mix of experienced players and young talent.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed look at five capped players and one uncapped player CSK might retain for the 2025 season.

Possible CSK Retained Players for IPL 2025

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad: The New Leader of CSK

One of the brightest talents in Indian cricket, Ruturaj Gaikwad, was named the captain of CSK ahead of IPL 2024, taking over from the legendary MS Dhoni. Gaikwad’s leadership qualities shone through in 2024, and he demonstrated his ability not only as a skipper but also as a key batsman for the team. Scoring 583 runs at an impressive average of 53 in the 2024 season, Gaikwad solidified his spot as a leader and a prolific run-scorer.

Considering the key role he played in 2024 and the trust the management has placed in him, Gaikwad is almost certain to be one of the CSK retained players 2025. His consistent performance, combined with his calm temperament under pressure, makes him essential for CSK’s future plans. Moreover, Gaikwad’s ability to adapt to different conditions and his tactical understanding will be crucial as CSK builds its squad for the IPL 2025 schedule.

Ruturaj Gaikwad IPL Stats:

2. Ravindra Jadeja: The Pillar of CSK’s All-Round Department

Ravindra Jadeja has been a main player of Chennai Super Kings for years. Known for his remarkable all-round abilities, Jadeja has consistently delivered with both bat and ball. In IPL 2023, he was the hero in the final, proving his worth once again to the franchise. His value as an experienced all-rounder is unparalleled, and his presence adds depth to Chennai’s playing XI.

Given Jadeja’s long-standing association with the franchise and his pivotal contributions in crucial matches, he will likely be one of the first names on CSK’s retention list for IPL in 2025. Jadeja's skills in both departments provide CSK with flexibility, enabling them to play around with their combinations. His fielding is an added advantage, making him a complete package that CSK cannot afford to lose. With the mega auction around the corner, retaining a player of Jadeja’s caliber is a no-brainer for the Chennai management.

Ravindra Jadeja IPL Stats:

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3. Matheesha Pathirana: The Rising Star of CSK’s Bowling Lineup

A young and talented bowler, Matheesha Pathirana has made a name for himself as a reliable pacer for Chennai Super Kings since joining the team in IPL 2022. His unorthodox bowling action and ability to consistently pick up wickets have made him a vital part of CSK’s bowling attack. In IPL 2024, Pathirana played in six matches, taking 13 wickets at an economy of 7.68, further cementing his place in the squad.

Despite limited game time in 2024, Pathirana’s potential is undeniable, and he represents the future of CSK’s bowling lineup. Given his age and ability to learn quickly, Pathirana is expected to be one of the retained players for the upcoming IPL season. CSK has a history of nurturing young talents, and retaining Pathirana would allow the team to build a formidable bowling attack for the seasons to come. Keeping him would show CSK’s plan to balance young talent with experienced players, helping them stay competitive while preparing for the future.

Matheesa Pathirana IPL Stats:

4. MS Dhoni: A Legend in a New Role

While it’s uncertain whether MS Dhoni will continue to play as a regular member of the CSK squad in the upcoming IPL season, there’s a possibility that the team may retain him under the new uncapped player rule. Dhoni, who batted lower down the order in IPL 2024, may no longer be at the peak of his powers as a player, but his leadership, experience, and influence on the team are irreplaceable.

Dhoni’s inclusion in the squad as an uncapped player could allow them to manage their budget wisely while keeping one of the most iconic figures in cricket history within the team setup. His presence, even if limited to off-field guidance, would be invaluable to Chennai Super Kings. Retaining Dhoni as an uncapped player could be a smart move for the team, especially considering his influence on the team's culture and strategic decisions.

MS Dhoni IPL Stats:

5. Rachin Ravindra: The Overseas Contingent’s X-Factor

Among the overseas players, Rachin Ravindra could be a surprise retention for Chennai Super Kings. After Devon Conway sustained a thumb injury in 2024, Ravindra stepped in and performed admirably in the initial matches. Although he had a dip in form mid-season, his performance in the virtual eliminator against Royal Challengers Bangalore caught everyone’s attention.

Ravindra’s ability to bat in the top order and contribute as a part-time bowler adds value to the team’s dynamic. Given this team’s track record of developing overseas talents like Matheesha Pathirana and Mustafizur Rahman, retaining a young talent like Ravindra could pay off in the long run. With Chennai Super Kings looking to keep their squad balanced and versatile, Ravindra might just make it to the list of CSK retained players for IPL 2025.

Rachin Ravindra IPL Stats:

Overall, as the 18th edition of TATA IPL approaches, the Chennai Super Kings management will have several tough decisions to make regarding which players to retain. With a mix of experienced stars like Ravindra Jadeja and emerging talents like Matheesha Pathirana, this team is well-positioned to build a balanced squad. The combination of youth and experience could help them remain competitive in the 2025 season and beyond.

With the mega auction on the horizon, Chennai Super Kings’s strategy for retained players could well define their campaign in 2025, and fans around the world will be watching closely to see how the five-time champions shape their future squad.