3 best RTM candidates for CSK at the IPL 2025 auction ft. Rachin Ravindra
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are gearing up for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Fresh off a season in which they missed out on the playoffs, the Men in Yellow will have an eye on redemption.
The Super Kings have retained five players ahead of the auction. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja are their priciest retentions, followed by Matheesha Pathirana and Shivam Dube. Former skipper MS Dhoni has been held onto as an "uncapped" player.
Knowing Chennai, they will want to get back as many of their former players as they possibly can. However, they have only one RTM card remaining to exercise. Which names could they target?
On that note, here are the three best RTM candidates for CSK at the IPL 2025 auction.
#3 Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra had an inconsistent campaign in IPL 2024, but he showed enough of his vast ability. After starting the season with some quickfire cameos, he lost his form and his place in the team, before returning to play a crucial knock in the final game against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Ravindra has already made significant strides in international cricket and is one of New Zealand's most important players across formats. An excellent player of spin, the left-hander is perfect for Chennai's home conditions. He is also a useful option with the ball and an electric fielder.
Ravindra should be one of CSK's biggest priorities at the IPL 2025 auction.
#2 Sameer Rizvi
CSK fought off the Gujarat Titans and the Delhi Capitals to acquire the services of Sameer Rizvi at the IPL 2024 auction. They signed the talented young batter for ₹8.4 crore.
However, Chennai weren't too keen on thrusting the youngster into difficult situations, and he played a fringe role throughout the campaign. Rizvi batted five times and didn't get a chance to spend a sustained period at the crease. Nevertheless, he showed flashes of brilliance, including twin sixes against Rashid Khan.
An excellent spin hitter with immense potential, Rizvi will also be high on CSK's wishlist for the IPL 2025 auction.
#1 Tushar Deshpande
Tushar Deshpande might not be the most reliable bowler in the world, but he has turned up more often than not while playing a difficult role for the Men in Yellow. Tasked with bowling in the powerplay and at the death, the fast bowler has been a vital cog in the bowling attack over the last two IPL seasons.
Indian pacers will be in high demand at the auction. Deshpande, as one of the few bowlers in the country who can consistently clock above 140 kph, will be sought after by several teams. His best years are ahead of him, and given the scarcity of his role, the Super Kings should look to reacquire his services.