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CSK’s Missed Opportunities In IPL 2025 Auction
Chennai Super Kings missed out on three key players in the IPL 2025 auction. Find out which players CSK could have signed to strengthen their squad.
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Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, had a productive day at the IPL mega auction held on November 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The team retained its core players, including Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana, before heading into the auction.
During the event, Chennai added 20 players to its squad, including notable names like Rahul Tripathi, Ravichandran Ashwin, Sam Curran, Khaleel Ahmed, and Vijay Shankar. With a well-rounded team, CSK is gearing up to fight for its sixth title in the upcoming IPL 2025 season, starting on March 14.
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However, there were three standout players that CSK targeted during the auction but couldn’t secure. Here’s a look at these missed opportunities and how they could have strengthened CSK’s squad.
1. Liam Livingstone
The explosive English all-rounder was one of the most sought-after players in the auction. Released by Punjab Kings, Livingstone was eventually picked up by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for INR 8.75 crore, just edging out CSK’s bid of INR 8.50 crore.
Known for his aggressive batting and ability to hit massive sixes, Livingstone could have added immense firepower to CSK’s middle order. He’s a proven performer with a solid IPL record—939 runs in 39 matches at an incredible strike rate of 162.45, including six fifties.
His presence would have eased the pressure on players like Shivam Dube during the death overs and provided Chennai with the flexibility to accelerate the scoring when needed. Livingstone’s all-round abilities and experience would have made him a key asset for CSK as they chase another championship.
2. Tushar Deshpande
Tushar Deshpande, once a part of CSK’s squad, had a remarkable run in recent IPL seasons, picking up 38 wickets in 29 matches. Despite his success, CSK released him ahead of the auction. The franchise tried to re-sign him but lost out to Rajasthan Royals, who bought the pacer for INR 6.50 crore.
Deshpande’s familiarity with CSK’s setup and his knack for delivering under pressure made him an ideal fit for the team. He could have bolstered the bowling attack alongside Matheesha Pathirana and new signing Khaleel Ahmed, giving CSK a reliable option with the new ball.
3. Robin Minz
Young wicketkeeper-batter Robin Minz, often called the “Chris Gayle of Jharkhand,” was another player Chennai had their eye on. Minz was eventually acquired by the Mumbai Indians for INR 65 lakh.
The 22-year-old caught everyone’s attention during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 with an explosive knock of 36, not out off just 12 balls. His ability to hit big shots and his potential as a long-term wicketkeeping option would have been a strategic addition for Chennai.
While MS Dhoni remains a key player and leader, having a backup like Minz could have provided the team with much-needed depth. His energy and batting power would have complemented CSK’s experienced middle order and served as a valuable investment for the future.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Auction: Top 5 Surprising Unsold Players
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