3 teams that should target Maheesh Theekshana in the IPL 2025 Auction ft. RCB
Quality spinners are always in demand at the Indian Premier League (IPL). In a format dominated by batters, spinners often play a key role in picking up wickets and controlling the run flow to build on the opposition batters.
In the T20 format where huge totals are scored, few spinners have been able to successfully establish themselves as those whom batters tend to get slightly cautious against and look to play them out.
One such spinner in the IPL in recent seasons has been Sri Lanka's Maheesh Theekshana. The right-arm off-break bowler has played only for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the league, taking 25 wickets from 27 games.
CSK released Theekshana ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. However, there is a possibility that the team might use their RTM option to bring him back. Besides CSK, other franchises would also have Theekshana on their radar.
Here are three other teams who should target the Sri Lankan spinner in the upcoming auction.
#3 SunRisers Hyderabad
Runners-up from the last season, SunRisers Hyderabad released all of their spin-bowling options such as Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmad, Mayank Markande, and Wanindu Hasaranga.
The Hyderabad-based franchise will need a lead spinner to bolster their attack for the upcoming seasons. Theekshana brings with him not only international experience but has also played T20 cricket around the globe in various other leagues such as Lanka Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, ILT20, and SA20.
With Daniel Vettori in the coaching staff at SRH, Theekshana could prove to be a perfect fit as Hyderabad aims to build a stronger line-up this time around.
#2 Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals have retained Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Riyan Parag. However, they have also let go of several big names ahead of the upcoming IPL auction.
The Royals let go of their spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal. Chahal's release, in particular, surprised many, given his consistent performances for them.
The Royals will now have to look for a lead spinner unless they manage to get Chahal back. Maheesh Theekshana has represented the Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League and thus, could be on their radar at the upcoming auction.
#1 Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have made only three retentions and have a high purse going into the IPL 2025 auction. Bowling has more often than not been a matter of concern for RCB.
At the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where batters are known to dominate, they will require bowlers who can handle the pressure, contain the opposition, and pick wickets.
Maheesh Theekshana could fit the bill perfectly keeping these requirements and conditions in mind. He can be effective in the powerplay and the middle overs. RCB do not have a lead spinner either, something they lacked last season.
They will be keen to fill in the gap and someone like Theekshana would be their target given his abilities and skill sets.