Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a smart move by signing left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed in the 2025 IPL auction. The talented bowler was bought for INR 4.8 crore, starting with a base price of INR 2 crore.
The bid battle for Khaleel saw interest from the Lucknow Super Giants, but CSK emerged victorious. This signing adds depth to their bowling attack, and the team hopes to benefit from his consistent performances in previous seasons.
Khaleel, who represented the Delhi Capitals in 2024, had a remarkable season, finishing as the team’s joint-highest wicket-taker. Despite his success, Delhi released him before the auction, opening the door for CSK to grab him. Here’s why this addition is a wise choice for the Super Kings.
1. Strong Performer with the New Ball
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Khaleel Ahmed is a proven asset with the new ball. His ability to swing the ball both ways and dismiss key batters early in the innings makes him a dangerous bowler.
In the previous season, he showed his class by dismissing big names like Rohit Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Shreyas Iyer. Notably, nearly half of his IPL wickets (48.6%) are against top-order batters, showcasing his effectiveness in the powerplay.
Additionally, Khaleel displayed sharp skills with his slower deliveries and cutters during the death overs. Pairing him with Matheesha Pathirana could create a formidable bowling duo for CSK, especially in pressure situations.
2. Reliable Wicket-Taker in IPL
Khaleel Ahmed has consistently delivered breakthroughs for his teams in the IPL. Last season, he was a top performer for the Delhi Capitals, claiming 17 wickets.
Overall, Khaleel has taken 74 wickets in 57 IPL matches, including his best figures of 3/21. Impressively, he is the fastest Indian bowler to reach 50 IPL wickets, achieving the milestone in just 35 matches during the 2023 season.
His standout year came in 2019 when he picked up 19 wickets, helping Sunrisers Hyderabad reach the playoffs. This track record highlights his ability to perform under pressure and deliver for his team.
3. Cost-Effective Buy
At INR 4.8 crore, Khaleel Ahmed was a bargain compared to other pacers in the 2025 auction. His consistent IPL performance and recent domestic form make this a valuable purchase for CSK.
For comparison, pacers like Arshdeep Singh (INR 18 crore), T. Natarajan (INR 10.75 crore), and Avesh Khan (INR 9.75 crore) were far more expensive. Despite his lower price, Khaleel’s stats remain competitive, with only a slight difference in wickets compared to these high-priced players in the last season.
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This economical buy allows CSK to strengthen their bowling lineup without overspending, giving them flexibility for other team needs.
Final Thoughts
Khaleel Ahmed’s addition to CSK brings a mix of experience, skill, and value. With his ability to strike early and perform consistently, he is likely to play a crucial role in CSK’s 2025 IPL campaign. Fans can look forward to seeing him make an impact in the yellow jersey.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Auction Day 1: Rishabh Pant Breaks The Bank
