IPL 2025: Top 3 players CSK might release ahead of mega-auction

2. Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane stunned the cricketing fraternity with his range of shots and strike rate in IPL 2023. In that edition of the competition, Rahane made 326 runs in 11 innings, at a strike rate of 172.48. It helped him seal a spot in the playing XI as the franchise also retained him for the next edition.

However, Rahane failed to get into the same zone in 2024. In the 12 innings that he played, Rahane made 242 runs at a strike rate of 123.46. It was not enough and it's unlikely that the cricketer would have another big season in the tournament, given that he is more calm and composed and likes to take time to settle down. 

Chennai are very likely to look beyond him in the upcoming cycle. Given that he is 36 years old, the franchise can’t show trust in him as they would be eager to build a team for the future.

Also Check: 3 players CSK might retain ahead of the IPL 2025 mega-auction