The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made headlines at the IPL 2025 auction by spending a hefty ₹2.2 crore to bring left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh into their squad. While his name may not yet be as big as some seasoned players, his journey and potential make him a fascinating addition to the team.
Here’s everything you need to know about CSK’s newest signing and the exciting journey that brought him here.
A Humble Beginning
From Punjab to Pursuing a Dream
Gurjapneet Singh was born in Ludhiana and raised in Ambala. Growing up, cricket was more than just a passion; it was a dream he was determined to chase. But the path wasn’t easy. Despite his talent, he couldn’t break into the Punjab age-group teams, a setback that could have deterred many.
A Leap of Faith
At the age of 17, with advice from his coach Anil Mashi, Gurjapneet made a bold move to Chennai. It wasn’t just about changing cities—it was about stepping out of his comfort zone to chase opportunities that seemed distant but achievable.
Making a Mark in Chennai
In Chennai, Gurjapneet joined Guru Nanak College, known for nurturing cricketing talent. His performances for the college team turned heads and earned him a spot in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) in 2021. This was the stepping stone he needed.
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The TNPL Breakthrough
In his debut TNPL season, Gurjapneet grabbed attention by taking seven wickets in nine matches. His ability to nail yorkers and outfox batters with slower deliveries stood out. These performances eventually led him to an even bigger stage—serving as a net bowler for CSK during the 2021 IPL season.
Rubbing Shoulders with Legends
Bowling to the likes of MS Dhoni in practice is no small feat. Gurjapneet recalls how challenging it was to bowl to Dhoni during death-over simulations. Every mistake was punished, but the learning curve was steep. “You either get better or get left behind,” he once said about his time with the team.
Injury Woes
Just as Gurjapneet was building momentum, a lower-back injury sidelined him for much of 2022. It was a tough phase, but he used the time off to focus on recovery and sharpening his skills.
A Stellar Comeback
When he returned for TNPL 2023, he was better than ever. Representing the Siechem Madurai Panthers, he picked up 15 wickets in just eight games, playing a crucial role in his team’s playoff qualification.
Bowling to Kohli
One of Gurjapneet’s most talked-about moments came during a net session for the Indian team ahead of the Bangladesh Test series. He managed to dismiss Virat Kohli, an achievement that left him both thrilled and terrified. Kohli’s initial frustration quickly turned into admiration, and the star batter even shared tips on improving his angles.
First-Class Debut Brilliance
In October 2024, Gurjapneet made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu against Saurashtra. While the first innings was uneventful, he stole the show in the second, taking 6/22, including the prized wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara. This performance wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was the best by a Tamil Nadu bowler in first-class cricket since 2005-06.
Also Read: Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The Youngest IPL Player To Feature In IPL 2025
What Makes Him Special?
At 6-foot-3, Gurjapneet’s height gives him an edge, allowing him to extract extra bounce. He’s known for his ability to bowl consistent yorkers, vary his pace, and stay calm under pressure—traits that make him a potent weapon in T20 cricket.
Why CSK Splurged ₹2.2 Crore
Left-arm pacers bring a unique angle to the game, and CSK has always valued bowlers who can bring variety to their attack. Gurjapneet fits the bill perfectly.
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Death-Over Specialist
His ability to handle high-pressure overs, especially at the death, is a skill that’s in high demand in the IPL. CSK clearly sees him as a long-term investment.
Gurjapneet Singh’s rise from being an underdog to a ₹2.2 crore IPL signing is a testament to his grit, talent, and perseverance. With his skills and CSK’s backing, he’s poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming IPL season. His journey is a reminder that with hard work and the right opportunities, dreams do come true.
