For the last few days, questions have been raised over the mode of signing of the star South Africa batter, Dewald Brevis, by the five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings, during the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). They have clarified all the actions to get the youngsters into the side.

Brevis was signed for the league fee of INR 2.2 crore as a replacement player for the injured Gurjapneet Singh, who was picked in the mega auction at the same price and later got injured during the process of the event. Brevis was signed in full accordance with the IPL player Regulations 2025-27, which includes the ‘replacement players.’

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“A replacement Player signed under either paragraph 6.1 or 6.2 can be recruited at a League Fee which shall not be more than the League Fee that would have been payable to the injured/unavailable Player for the relevant Season. If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee paid to him will be reduced to take account of the Franchisee’s matches during the relevant Season.” CSK revealed in an official statement.

CSK breaks silence on signing Dewald Brevis till IPL 2027

Brevis smashed a fine knock of unbeaten 125 runs during the second of the three-match T20I series against Australia in Darwin. He continued the same flow and rhythm with the bat during the third fixture of the series, where the right-handed batter drilled 53 runs in 26 balls at a strike rate of over 200, shouldering on one boundary and six sixes.

For the Super Kings, during the 2025 season of the IPL, Brevis was in incredible touch, having earned 225 runs in six innings at an average of 37.50 and a strike rate of 180 with two half-centuries at the best score of 57 runs. He was part of the previous seasons of the league for the Mumbai Indians.

It’s a massive development for the Yellow franchise, which can now build its future around the youngster. Brevis will also get more exposure and experience in the shortest format and trips around the world for various franchise leagues.

It's a day of honor and pride for the citizens of India as the nation takes the moment to celebrate its 79th Independence Day. It was on this very day, on August 15, 1947, that the struggles and the sacrifices of our beloved freedom fighters paid dividends. For the first time in history, India was freed from the British occupation. A new chapter unfolded as the country looked to brush aside the dominance of their colonial masters in an effort to cater to a bright future for its suffering citizens at that time.

From freedom fighters at the front line to people working behind the scenes, the fight for independence had everyone involved, highlighting the importance of everyone's role. As the nation gears up to hoist the tricolor all around, several cricketing personalities took the opportunity to extend their wishes on this auspicious day. 

Most notable of whom was the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir. With a past background in politics, Gambhir's deep patriotism for the country didn't go unnoticed as he took to his Twitter account to post the following:

“My country, my identity, my life! Jai Hind."

My country, my identity, my life! Jai Hind!🇮🇳#IndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/seiUpwc8so

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 15, 2025

Gambhir's former teammate, Irfan Pathan, also took the opportunity to send his heartfelt wishes, urging everyone to stay united for a common cause.

Wishing every Indian a Happy Independence Day! 🇮🇳
Our freedom was hard-earned; our duty is to keep it alive — in spirit, in action, and in unity.
Jai Hind! pic.twitter.com/3tporvuzZ0

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 14, 2025

In addition, several IPL franchises also followed suit and came up with creative posts in a bid to wish every Indian on this special occasion of Independence Day. 

देश के नाम, दिल से सलाम 💙❤

जय हिन्द।🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/2QFRscNkBk

— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) August 15, 2025

A united nation rose in the spirit of the tricolour! 🇮🇳💛🥳

Happy 7⃣9⃣th Independence Day, India!#IndependenceDay #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/EYjTSrQhjE

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 15, 2025

Proud hearts. Soaring flags. 🧡🤍💚

Happy Independence Day! 🇮🇳#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #IndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/H2BZPmf9iO

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) August 14, 2025

See also: Asia Cup: Lok Sabha Member Says India Should Avoid Playing Cricket Against Pakistan

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the national flag during a recent visit to the Red Fort, from where he addressed the nation. Although the mood was quite celebratory for the most part, Modi issued a stern warning to Pakistan and reminded them about the might of the Indian forces.

The relation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors has significantly deteriorated after the Pahalgam terror attacks. What followed was a highly sophisticated military campaign from the Indian government dubbed "Operation Sindoor." The operation was an immediate success, as the Indian armed forces were able to swiftly dismantle key military installations deep inside Pakistan. But a timely intervention from US president Donald Trump prevented the situation from escalating any further, and a ceasefire was brokered, which still remains in effect to this day. 

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra recently raised an interesting question about whether Dewald Brevis could be considered the best injury replacement in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

During the 2025 season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) brought in the young South African talent as a replacement for injured pacer Gurjapneet Singh. Brevis, known for his aggressive batting and adaptability, quickly made his presence felt on the big stage. His performances sparked discussions among fans and experts alike about the impact of mid-season signings.

Chopra highlighted how Brevis seamlessly adapted to the team’s needs, delivering consistent contributions despite joining the squad midway. His ability to handle pressure situations and score crucial runs added significant value to CSK’s campaign, prompting debates on whether any other injury replacement in IPL history had made such a strong and immediate impact.

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Aakash Chopra Talked About CSK’s Injury Replacement:

Dewald Brevis lit up the second T20I between South Africa and Australia in Darwin on Tuesday, August 12, with a stunning unbeaten 125 off just 56 deliveries. His explosive knock powered the Proteas to a dominant 53-run victory, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.

Sharing his thoughts on his YouTube channel “Aakash Chopra”, the former India opener praised Brevis’ remarkable talent. He suggested that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may have secured a real gem by signing the young South African as an injury replacement. Chopra noted that such performances underline Brevis’ potential to become a game-changer, both for his national side and in the Indian Premier League.

He said, “ Was Gurjapneet's injury replacement the best replacement in IPL history? Dewald Brevis got the entire credit for stopping Australia's winning streak. He scored a century. He broke multiple records while scoring the century, and after that, AB de Villiers praised him a lot and said that he was surprised when no one picked him in the auction, and that's an absolutely legit question.”

Aakash Chopra noted that the 22-year-old has exceptional talent and the potential to develop into one of cricket’s most impactful and dominant players. He emphasized that Brevis’ skills, combined with his fearless approach, make him a promising star for the future, capable of delivering match-winning performances at the highest level.

He further said, “ However, now he is part of the Chennai Super Kings. He came because Gurjapneet got injured. He is the new cub who will one day be a lion. He bats, fields incredibly well, and keeps as well. So Dewald Brevis has huge potential. He has also shown that he plays spin well. He is in good form as well, and could possibly be the most important injury replacement in the history of the IPL.”

Dewald Brevis’s Performance in IPL 2025:

Despite Chennai Super Kings ending at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table, Dewald Brevis emerged as a standout performer. In just six innings, the South African batter scored 225 runs at an impressive strike rate of 180, showcasing his explosive hitting and ability to change games single-handedly. A standout performer in CSK’s otherwise underwhelming 2025 season.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson reportedly wants to leave the franchise, while the inaugural IPL champions are reportedly searching for a strong alternative. There is new progress in this story, as the franchise is reportedly knocking on the door of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a trade deal.

Rajasthan Royals' most capped player and most capped captain with a record number of wins, Sanju Samson, reportedly wants to leave the franchise since the end of IPL 2025. He made his IPL debut for the franchise in 2013, and apart from 2016 and 2017, when the Royals were suspended and he served for Delhi Daredevils (presently known as Delhi Capitals), he has served for the franchise in every IPL season. However, the present RR skipper isn't reportedly happy with the franchise due to the lack of decision-making freedom in the late stages of the last IPL season, including losing his opening batting spot to the youngsters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

See Also: 'Riyan Parag is the reason...'- Former CSK batter reveals why Sanju Samson wants to leave RR ahead of IPL 2026

IPL 2026 trade: Sanju Samson out for either Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube

While Samson is reportedly desperate to leave the franchise, the Rajasthan Royals are reportedly looking for the best trade deal option at the moment. According to the latest Cricbuzz report, RR want either Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube for the trade of Samson. 

Ruturaj Gaikwad is 6th leading IPL run-scorer since 2021

Ruturaj Gaikwad is the present CSK captain, who missed out on the second half of the IPL 2025 due to injury, where MS Dhoni returned to lead the franchise. In 71 IPL matches, he has scored 2502 runs with an average of 40.35 and a strike rate of 137.47, including two centuries and 20 half-centuries. While he has played four complete IPL seasons (2021 to 2024), he scored 500+ runs in three of those seasons. Since 2021, he has been the sixth-highest run-scorer in IPL.

Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube previously played for Rajasthan Royals

Meanwhile, the all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube both previously played for Rajasthan Royals, while the former was a key member during winning the inaugural IPL title (2008). Jadeja served for Royals between 2008 and 2009, where he played 27 matches. In the meantime, Dube served for Royals in the 2021 edition and played nine games. 

Jay Jani, a devoted MS Dhoni fan, has tragically passed away following a tractor accident. Jani, who gained attention during the 2024 IPL season after breaching security at the Narendra Modi Stadium to touch Dhoni’s feet, was travelling to his farm in a tractor when the vehicle overturned due to imbalance. Originating from the village Rabarika in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Jani was recognized by many of Dhoni supporters alike, and boasted almost 18,000 followers on Instagram and had a YouTube channel, Dhoni Ashiq Official, with over 13,000 subscribers. 

The person of worship for Jani was MS Dhoni, who had been last on the field in the 2025 IPL season. Under the new retention rules, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retained him as an uncapped player for ₹4 crore. Dhoni returned as captain mid-season after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury ruled him out after five matches. However, the five-time champions endured a disappointing campaign, struggling to find form and momentum throughout the tournament.

See Also: 'Humare jawaan ghar wapas...' - Harbhajan Singh slams BCCI over India vs Pakistan Asia Cup clash 2025

CSK’s poor run saw them finish at the bottom of the points table for the first time in their history, managing only four wins from 14 matches. While the team experienced challenges winning matches, Dhoni made a total contribution of 196 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 135.17. It was great to have Dhoni back at captain, but even he could not prevent one of the worst seasons of any IPL teams, one of the extremely rare poor moments in the otherwise great history of the franchise.

 

 

 

 

 

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I have time to decide: MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni has not yet confirmed his plans for the next IPL season, stating that he will decide in December after taking a couple of months to reflect. At 44, the legendary cricketer is still one of the most recognized names in the league. Dhoni holds the record for the most appearances in IPL history with 278 matches and has scored a total of 5,439 runs in his career. Although batting records are impressive, he had an equally good record behind the stumps. He had 201 dismissals, making him one of the all-time greats in IPL history.

"I don't know whether I'll play or not. I have time to decide. I have some time until December, so I'll take another couple of months, and then finally, I can make my decision," MS Dhoni said in a recent interview.

Just after Dewald Brevis’ 56-ball knock of an unbeaten 125 runs against Australia in Darwin, South Africa leveled the series at 1-1. That’s when the former captain of the Protea side, AB de Villiers, came up with a cryptic post where he reckoned that other franchises of the IPL were unlucky not to sign the batter. He also called CSK lucky or a master stroke to get the batter in.

Renowned as ‘Baby Ab’ for his incredible power-hitting, the Johannesburg-born came as a replacement for CSK, which the sources of the franchises, as the Times of India reported, addressed as a bit of a fluke. For the five-time champions, Brevis smashed 225 runs in six innings at an average of 37.50 and a strike rate of 180 with the help of two half-centuries.

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“We had lost six of the first eight games and knew that our season was gone. And remember, we didn’t get Brevis as a replacement for a batter. He came in for medium-pacer, Gurjapneet Singh. He had seemed a suspect against spin in the first two seasons, and the date didn’t suggest anything special.” The source, as reported by TOI, explained.

Know how CSK planned to sign Dewald Brevis as replacement for IPL 2025

The 22-year-old smacked 230 runs in 10 innings for the Mumbai Indians during the 2022 and 2024 seasons of the Indian Premier League at a strike rate of over 130. He was released by Mumbai, a decision that they now regret, but interestingly, none of the franchises showed interest in the batter during the last mega auction.

“With Ruturaj Gaikwad out with an injury, we were lacking firepower up top, and with no chance to make the play-offs, there was scope to experiment. Bairstow had experience, but by then, we were ready to take a chance with young guns.” The source of the CSK side claimed to TOI.

The final decision was about to be taken between Brevis and Jonny Bairstow. Stephen Fleming, the CSK head coach, wanted to unleash the young player ahead of the England opener, and once MS Dhoni gave the thumbs up, the signing was made. Brevis could become the future of the franchise.

Sanju Samson's future in Rajasthan Royals (RR) currently is in a dilemma, which can result in the exit of the keeper-batter from RR. There are several reports on social media claiming Samson's possible move ahead of IPL 2026.

But there is no clear reason revealed why the top-order batter would like to leave the franchise and can join Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Former CSK cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath dug out a reason behind Sanju's possible move from Rajasthan to Chennai. According to Badrinath, Riyan Parag can be the reason. When

Samson, the regular skipper of RR for IPL 2025, missed multiple matches due to injury, the RR management showed their trust in Parag to lead the team. Badrinath's logic is that when a franchise starts to keep faith in Parag, a player like Samson can consider trying his luck outside the team. "I feel Riyan Parag is the reason. If you consider him for captaincy, how do you expect someone like Samson to stay?" Badrinath said in a video on his YouTube channel.

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Where Sanju will bat if the joins CSK?

The former CSK batter is skeptical about whether Sanju can be a good fit for CSK's combination or not. Reflecting the composure of the Super Kings line-up, Badrinath opined that Samson can be a like-for-like substitution for MS Dhoni. But Dhoni used to bat in the lower middle order, while Samson is a typical top-order batsman. 

"If Sanju Samson does come to CSK, then he could be the like-for-like replacement for MS Dhoni. Samson is a batter who can bat in the top three or four spots in the batting order. He is not someone who could fit in the number five or six spot in the playing XI. CSK are strong in those areas of the playing XI. "Mhatre is settled, Gaikwad is settled, and Brevis is settled," Badrinath added. 

The former Indian and Chennai Super Kings’ captain, MS Dhoni, is going to record his statement after the Madras High Court ordered trial in his INR 100 crore defamation case, which was filed by the former wicket-keeper batter against two prominent media channels and a journalist, who dragged his name in the IPL betting scandal of the 2013 season of the league.

Justice CV Karthikeyan appointed an advocated commissioner, who will record all the evidences on the behalf of MS Dhoni. On the account of the 43-year-old former India batter being the celebrity and a notable figure across the world, his presence in person for the examination cold lead to the chaos. That’s why the two-time World Cup-winner will not appear in the court in person.

See Also: [WATCH] Ruturaj Gaikwad hits nets to prepare for Duleep Trophy 2025

It's an old case coming by the veteran batter, which was registered nearly 11 years ago, seeking the damage of INR 100 crore from the defendants. Dhoni alleged that during a debate on the television on the betting scandal of the Indian Premier League (IPL), defamatory remarks were made against him.

MS Dhoni to record statement on INR 100 crore defamation after high-court moves to trials

The reports of the Hindustan Times have addressed that the senior counsel, PR Raman, submitted an affidavit from the former Indian captain, which wanted the start of trial which had now been pending for a decade as both parties seek relief over the years.

“The above request is made with the intent to avoid any undue delay (in disposal of the suit pending in the High Court for over a decade) and to support the fair, just, and speedy adjudication of the suit. I state that I shall extend my full co-operation with the Advocate Commissioner and comply with all directions issued by this Honourable court regarding the trial and the recording of evidence.” The affidavit read.

The spot-fixing scandal of the IPL in 2013 was a huge step in the league as the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals were banned for two years in 2016 and 2017. As it happens all the time, there are speculations of whether Dhoni would appear for the next season for CSK in the IPL 2026.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Indian opening batter and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, has started practicing in the nets for the upcoming 2025 season of the Duleep Trophy as the CSK franchise released a video of his net session. The right-handed batter will feature for the West Zone team. He was ruled out of the previous season of the IPL due to an injury.

Later, MS Dhoni led the charge in the rest of the event. Gaikwad was inconsistent with just 122 runs in five clashes at an average of 24.40 and two half-centuries, while under his leadership, they won only one of the five games of the season. He signed for Yorkshire in the County Championship 2025 but backed out at the last moment due to personal reasons.

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Along with Gaikwad, some of the notable international players to feature in the red-ball domestic tournament are Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shreyas Iyer, who are part of the same team. Shardul Thakur has been named as the leader of the side, despite his inexperience in this department in the first-class format for Mumbai.

Watch: Ruturaj Gaikwad prepares for upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025

The 28-year-old has smashed an overall 2632 runs in 65 innings of the first-class format at an average of 41.77 and a strike rate of nearly 60, with the help of 14 half-centuries and seven centuries at the best score of 195 runs. His last clash in the field came in the first week of April this year against the Punjab Kings.

Keeping the drive going! 💪🔥 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/QM8GPxxNEc

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 12, 2025

In the video, released by the Super Kings, Gaikwad was seen to go through batting drills against various bowlers. It will be a vital tournament for the Maharashtra batter, who will look to get back in his old rhythm with the bat post-injury.

A few days ago, Ruturaj turned up in Chennai alongside Dhoni in an event where they, reportedly, discussed the planning for the franchise ahead of the mini auction of the league for the upcoming season. There are discussions of the franchise showing their interest in Sanju Samson while parting ways with the veteran spin bowling all-rounder, Ravichandran Ashwin.

Australia’s versatile all-rounder Cameron Green played a key role for Mumbai Indians during the 2023 IPL season. His contributions with both bat and ball helped the team in several crucial moments, showcasing his all-around skills.

In 2024, Green made a switch to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he continued to impress. Throughout the season, he delivered some strong performances, proving to be an important asset for the RCB squad. His ability to adapt quickly to the new team environment highlighted his professionalism and cricketing intelligence.

Green’s consistent form with both bat and ball has made him a valuable player in the IPL. His experience in different roles, whether stabilizing the innings or taking crucial wickets, adds depth to his team’s lineup and makes him a vital figure for RCB moving forward.

See Also: Top 3 contenders to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI opener for upcoming 2027 World Cup

Cameron Green can be Valuable Player in Auction:

Cameron Green featured in 29 IPL matches over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, amassing 707 runs and taking 16 wickets. Unfortunately, injuries forced him to sit out the entire IPL 2025 season, and he did not enter the mega auction that year.

Looking ahead, Cameron Green is eligible for the IPL 2026 mini auction. Australian all-rounders have always been highly sought after in the IPL, and Green is no exception. His proven track record, combined with his ability to bowl fast and hit powerful shots, makes him a valuable player. Teams will likely be eager to secure his services as he brings both batting firepower and bowling versatility to any squad.

Green can be Choice for Various Teams:

Several IPL teams are on the lookout for a reliable all-rounder. Here are three franchises that should consider bidding for Cameron Green in the upcoming auction. His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball makes him a valuable asset, and these teams could benefit greatly from adding his skills to strengthen their lineup for the next season.

• Kolkata Knight Riders Eyeing Cameron Green as Key Target

At the IPL 2025 mega auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) invested ₹23.75 crore to acquire Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer. However, Iyer couldn’t live up to expectations, scoring just 142 runs in 11 matches during the season. His performance fell short of the high price paid, leaving the team searching for stronger contributions from their all-rounder lineup.

KKR may consider releasing Venkatesh Iyer and searching for a new all-rounder who can bat up front and bowl pace. Cameron Green fits perfectly. Known as a dependable match-winner, Green would thrive on the flat Eden Gardens pitch. Combining Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Cameron Green in the batting lineup would pose a serious challenge for any bowling attack, making Green a valuable addition for KKR.

• Chennai Super Kings

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), five-time IPL champions, had a disappointing 2025 season, finishing last with only four wins in 14 matches. The team backed players like Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, and Vijay Shankar, but they all failed to perform consistently. As a result, CSK is expected to release these players ahead of IPL 2026.

Additionally, Ravichandran Ashwin, who was signed for ₹9.75 crore, has reportedly requested to be released before the next season. This move could free up a significant portion of the budget, allowing CSK to target a top-quality all-rounder like Cameron Green. Known for his skills with both bat and ball, Green fits perfectly into MS Dhoni’s strategy of building a strong team around versatile all-rounders, making him a prime candidate to join CSK in IPL 2026.

• Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals (RR) faced backlash from fans for overlooking top all-rounders in the last auction. While the team invested heavily in specialist batsmen and bowlers, their squad included just one dedicated all-rounder. This lack of balance in the lineup raised concerns about their overall team composition and depth ahead of the upcoming IPL season.

Reports suggest that Sanju Samson has requested to be released by Rajasthan Royals. If true, this would free up significant funds for RR ahead of the mini auction. With the extra budget, they could target a top all-rounder like Cameron Green, who could fill the impactful role similar to Shane Watson’s tenure with the Royals from 2008 to 2015.