Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have followed their usual strategy ahead of the mega auctions by retaining their core players. As they prepare for the upcoming season, they have six positions to fill in their starting XI (or seven if the Impact Player is included), as well as the task of finalizing their squad.

Their wish list may include a top-order batsman who can also bowl spin, preferably off-spin, some experienced Indian pacers, a potential foreign fast bowler and a foreign opener. By targeting these specific positions, CSK aims to strengthen its squad and maintain its competitive edge in the upcoming season.

Retained players: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Rs 18 crore), Matheesha Pathirana (Rs 13 crore), Shivam Dube (Rs 12 crore), Ravindra Jadeja (Rs 18 crore), MS Dhoni (Rs 4 crore)

Remaining wallet: Rs 55 crore; RTM slots available: 1; Slots available: 20 (seven abroad)

Auction strategy

With a budget of just Rs 55 crore, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will have to navigate through challenging bidding wars, potentially avoiding expensive Indian marquee players. This may disappoint fans who are hoping to see players like Rishabh Pant or KL Rahul in the iconic yellow jersey.

But CSK is likely to invest in foreign players and dynamic all-rounders to strengthen their squad. Players like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra or Maheesh Theekshana can be considered as potential Right to Match (RTM) options.

When it comes to Indian players, CSK will focus on acquiring batsmen and bowlers who have a history of success with the team or who can fill specific roles. The remaining spots in the squad will be filled with strategic, talented uncapped players.

Likely buys

Devon Conway

Conway and CSK are a perfect pair, which was shown during their successful 2023 campaign. Conway emerged as the team’s top goalscorer and was awarded player of the match in the final. Gaikwad complements Conway effectively, and Conway’s ability to keep wickets adds to his value. Also, a CSK team would feel missing without a foreign opener.

Venkatesh Iyer

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a long-standing affinity with top left-handed batsmen, regardless of nationality. Venkatesh Iyer is all set to fill that role, giving the team versatility with his stylish seam bowling. His ability to bat anywhere in the top four gives CSK strategic options.

Glenn Maxwell

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a strong affinity for spin-bowling all-rounders, and Maxwell fits that criteria perfectly. During the previous mega auction, CSK showed keen interest in acquiring Maxwell, but ultimately had to abandon the hunt due to financial constraints, leading them to sign Moeen Ali instead.

Wanindu Hasaranga

Having a world-class spinner in the team is critical to success. A spinner who can also excel as an all-round batsman would be a valuable asset. Hasaranga shows promise in fulfilling this dual role.

Glen Phillips

Phillips is a versatile player who excels in several aspects of the game. His ability to adapt as a batter and now as a skilled off-spinner gives CSK a plethora of strategic options. With a strike rate of over 140 in all T20 matches and known as one of the best fielders globally, Phillips is a much sought after asset for CSK.

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