CSK Eyes Rishabh Pant as Dhoni's Successor, GT Retains Gill and Khan

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are planning for the future without their iconic wicket-keeper batter MS Dhoni. The five-time IPL champions have identified India star Rishabh Pant as their top target in the IPL 2025 auction.

Dhoni is expected to be retained by CSK as an 'uncapped player' under the new rule. However, the franchise is looking at a long-term plan. According to the Indian Express, Pant has emerged as the top pick for CSK. The franchise is keen on acquiring Pant if he enters the auction pool.

CSK has decided to retain skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, and Dhoni. The decision on all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will depend on Pant's situation at Delhi Capitals.

If Pant enters the auction, CSK believes he will command a price around Rs 20 crore. This may result in the franchise not retaining Jadeja. However, CSK may use the Right To Match (RTM) option for Jadeja in that case.

Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans (GT) is likely to retain skipper Shubman Gill, star spinner Rashid Khan, young opener Sai Sudharsan, and explosive hitters Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

These retentions will leave GT with one RTM card option at the upcoming auction. With the amount given to each player still unknown, GT will have around Rs 51 crores deducted from their overall purse of Rs 120 crores for retaining three international players and two uncapped players.

All franchises must submit their list of retained players by October 31. Each team can retain six players, with a maximum of five capped and two uncapped. This can be done via retention or the RTM option.

Tags: #IPL2025, #ChennaiSuperKings, #RishabhPant, #MSDhoni, #RavindraJadeja