IPL 2025 Retention: List of Players Retained by CSK Ahead of IPL Mega Auction Over the Years

The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to bring significant changes to team compositions with the much-anticipated mega auction on the horizon. Recently, the IPL Governing Council announced new player regulations for the 2025-2027 cycle, outlining retention rules that will shape team strategies in the upcoming season.

Retention Rules for IPL 2025: What’s New?

As per the latest guidelines, each franchise is allowed to retain a total of six players. This can be achieved through a combination of direct retention and the use of the Right to Match (RTM) card. The flexibility to retain or release players and later buy them back using RTM adds a strategic layer to the auction process.

IPL 2025 Retention: List of Players Retained by CSK Ahead of IPL Mega Auction Over the Years

A significant update involves the reinstatement of an old rule regarding uncapped players. According to this rule, a capped Indian player will be classified as uncapped if they have not played international cricket or do not hold a BCCI central contract in the past five years. This allows teams to retain such players at a lower cost, potentially saving them significant money at the auction.

RCB Retention History: Players Retained Before IPL 2025 and Past Mega Auctions

How Does This Impact Chennai Super Kings?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, stand to benefit significantly from these updated rules. For instance, the ability to retain an iconic player like MS Dhoni at a lower cost could be a strategic advantage for CSK. With the deadline for announcing retentions set for October 31, 2024, CSK’s management must make some critical decisions.

CSK’s Likely Retentions for IPL 2025

  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad
  • Shivam Dube
  • MS Dhoni

CSK may opt to retain four key players and use two RTM cards during the auction. Let’s explore the importance of each probable retention in the context of CSK’s legacy and future.

1. Ravindra Jadeja: A Veteran Presence

Jadeja has been a vital part of CSK since 2012 and remains a top candidate for retention. His outstanding skills as an all-rounder make him indispensable for the team, providing both stability in the middle order and a crucial bowling option. His experience and commitment have solidified his reputation as one of the best all-rounders in international cricket.

2. Ruturaj Gaikwad: A Star in the Making

Since taking over the captaincy from MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad has consistently proven his abilities. His performances with the bat have been nothing short of exceptional, making him a crucial asset for CSK. His retention would not only add value to the team on the field but also position him as the face of the franchise for the future.

3. Shivam Dube: CSK’s Emerging Talent

Shivam Dube has found his groove with CSK, particularly during the IPL 2024 season, where he emerged as one of the standout performers. Known for his ability to provide powerful finishes with the bat and contribute useful overs with the ball, Dube’s versatility makes him a strong candidate for retention.

4. MS Dhoni: The Guiding Light

MS Dhoni has been retained by CSK every season since the franchise’s inception. Despite stepping down as captain, his potential retention is still generating significant excitement. While he might not be the powerhouse he once was, his experience and mentorship are invaluable assets, and his influence extends beyond just playing—he’s the heart and soul of CSK.

CSK might consider retaining Dhoni in the lowest pay category, a strategy that not only saves money but also keeps the team’s iconic figure close, perhaps in a player-mentor role.

Potential Uncapped Retentions: A New Strategy

As per the new rules, retaining uncapped players can be advantageous, especially in terms of budget. CSK might consider retaining players like Matheesha Pathirana, dubbed the “Baby Malinga,” who has impressed everyone with his pace. His age and performance potential make him a prime candidate for future development.

Moreover, retaining emerging talent like Ravindra, an uncapped all-rounder, can bolster the squad’s depth. His adaptability and skills across multiple positions provide additional options for team balance.

CSK’s Retention History in IPL Mega Auctions

Chennai Super Kings have been part of several mega auctions since the league’s inception, and their retention strategies have evolved over the years. Here’s a look at the players CSK retained ahead of previous IPL mega auctions:

CSK Retained Player List Before IPL 2011 Mega Auction

In 2011, CSK retained:

  • MS Dhoni for $1.8 Million
  • Suresh Raina for $1.3 Million
  • Murali Vijay for $900,000
  • Albie Morkel for $500,000

These four players formed the backbone of CSK’s squad during their early years, contributing significantly to their success.

CSK Retained Player List Before IPL 2014 Mega Auction

Ahead of the 2014 mega auction, CSK chose to retain their core Indian players:

  • MS Dhoni – Rs 12.50 Crore
  • Suresh Raina – Rs 9.50 Crore
  • Ravindra Jadeja – Rs 5.50 Crore
  • Ravichandran Ashwin – Rs 7.50 Crore

CSK Retained Player List Before IPL 2018 Mega Auction

Upon their return after a two-year ban, CSK retained:

  • MS Dhoni – Rs 15 Crore
  • Suresh Raina – Rs 11 Crore
  • Ravindra Jadeja – Rs 7 Crore

Additionally, they used RTM cards to bring back:

  • Faf du Plessis – Rs 1.6 Crore
  • Dwayne Bravo – Rs 6.4 Crore

CSK Retained Player List Before IPL 2022 Mega Auction

In 2022, with two new teams joining the league, CSK retained:

  • Ravindra Jadeja – Rs 16 Crore
  • MS Dhoni – Rs 12 Crore
  • Moeen Ali – Rs 8 Crore
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad – Rs 6 Crore

Will CSK Retain MS Dhoni for IPL 2025?

The big question on every CSK fan’s mind is whether the franchise will retain MS Dhoni for the 2025 season. While his role as an active player may be coming to an end, retaining him as a mentor could provide invaluable guidance to the younger players. His experience could help shape future leaders and ensure that CSK maintains their competitive edge.

CSK’s Strategic Approach to the IPL 2025 Mega Auction

The IPL 2025 mega auction presents CSK with an opportunity to blend experience with emerging talent. With the flexibility to retain up to six players, including capped and uncapped players, CSK’s management will need to make careful decisions to balance the retention of marquee players with developing future stars.

Balancing the budget, ensuring team dynamics, and maintaining a competitive edge will be the key challenges for CSK. This auction will not only determine the players retained but also reflect the strategic vision for CSK in the upcoming years of the IPL.

Final Thoughts

The Chennai Super Kings have always focused on retaining a core group of players, which has been the secret behind their consistency. As we approach the 2025 IPL mega auction, CSK’s strategy will revolve around a mix of experienced veterans like Dhoni and Jadeja, alongside emerging talents like Gaikwad and Dube.

Rivcky John

A prominent figure in sports journalism for the last two decades. Cricket Analyst & Writing News, Features, Match Previews/Reviews/Reports, And Opinion Pieces on Cricket. You can connect with him on Facebook also.