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

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) always look like the most sought-after team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). They are always criticised for buying players who are over 30 but interestingly, the franchise is very consistent, winning the trophy five times. Their star captain MS Dhoni resigned from his position ahead of IPL 2024 but that didn’t impact them much on the field, as there was still unity, even though Chennai failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Dhoni remains the face and voice of CSK. However, it's unclear if the star cricketer will feature in the upcoming edition of the IPL. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials are yet to finalise the number of players each franchise can retain and whether or not the ‘Right To Match’ (RTM) cards will be back during the upcoming mega-auction.

Nevertheless, Chennai would like the idea of a mega-auction. An overhaul was needed as going with the same for another cycle would have been dangerous, given that many of their key players are in mid or post-30. So, who are the top three cricketers CSK can release ahead of the next edition?

Here are three key players CSK can release ahead of IPL 2025:

3. Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur made a name for himself while playing for Chennai Super Kings. However, ahead of the IPL 2022, the franchise couldn’t retain him due to limitations. He played a season each for Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders but couldn’t make much of an impact and was released ahead of the 2024 edition.

Chennai spent INR 4 crore to sign him in the auction. However, Thakur failed to make a mark, which is why, the franchise will have to let him go. He played nine matches for the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side in 2024 and picked up only five wickets at an economy of 9.75. Chennai might not even buy him back and look for alternatives.

In the absence of a star Indian pacer in the team, Thakur had the opportunity to capitalize and seal his spot in the playing XI and remain in the scheme of things as far as the Indian team is concerned. However, he struggled with both ball and bat and will have to grind hard in the domestics to make a case for himself.

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