The IPL 2025 season proved to be a forgettable one for Chennai Super Kings, with the five-time title winners finishing bottom of the table. CSK managed only 4 victories in 14 games and did not make it to the playoffs, showing neither consistency nor fire across departments. The franchise also failed to find the right combination under a new leadership era after MS Dhoni.

Though some young players and old-timers gave glimpses of promise, some members of the squad were woefully short. In the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction, a drastic overhaul is on the cards, and the following six players are expected to be released:

1. Rachin Ravindra

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra played 8 games, making 191 runs at an average of 27.29 and a strike rate of 128.19 with two half-centuries. He lacked consistency, though, and more often than not failed to make an impression from his starts. His left-arm spin was not properly utilized, having very little effect. With CSK looking for a more attacking and multi-faceted top-order player, Ravindra will probably be let go.

2. Sam Curran

Sam Curran featured in 5 matches, scoring 114 runs with an average of 22.80 and a strike rate of 135.71. With the ball, he scalped 5 wickets but conceded runs in plenty, ending with an economy of 11.08. He was bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2.40 Cr. Even though he has had past CSK experiences, he did not contribute much in either form in 2025. As his price is high and he didn't yield much return, CSK might unload him to accommodate more effective overseas players.

3. Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar scored 118 runs from 5 games at an average of 39.33 and a strike rate of 129.67, including one half-century. He was acquired by CSK for ₹1.2 crore at the IPL 2025 auction. But his contribution did not have any match-winning value, and he wasn't given a chance to bowl. His existence as a reserve Indian all-rounder is redundant in CSK's new team dynamic. With younger options present, his chances of being retained are less.

4. Deepak Hooda

Deepak Hooda's season was not good, with just 31 runs in 6 games at a woeful average of 6.20 and a strike rate of 75.61. He was acquired by CSK at the 2025 IPL Auction for INR 1.7 crore. Despite being experimented with in the middle order, he couldn't push the game along or steady the ship in crisis situations. He did not get a bowl and exerted no impact in any match. With his form not being good and no single good performance, he is sure to be released.

See Also: Big Breaking! RCB list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5.  Jamie Overton

Jamie Overton was signed by CSK during the IPL 2025 auction. jamie Overton played only 2 matches in IPL 2025, conceding runs at a very high economy rate of 13.83 with the bat scoring 15 at a strike rate of 214.29. He was picked as a pace-bowling all-rounder but never earned the trust of the management for his services in the big matches. With so little contribution and overseas spots being precious, Overton is expected to be one of the first few to be let go of releases.

6. Rahul Tripathi

Rahul Tripathi was acquired by CSK for INR 3.40 crore at the 2025 IPL Auction. He played 5 games and managed just 55 runs at an average of 11.00 and a strike rate of 96.49. As brought in for adding depth to the top order, he could not get into rhythm or contribute at all. His failure put more pressure on a batting lineup already fragile. With form and confidence being lacking, his retention also looks extremely unlikely.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt a hard blow before IPL 2025 resumes on May 17. RR's ace pacer Jofra Archer, who was going to play the last two league matches, has been ruled out with a new injury, shattering hopes of his availability for the tournament. On the other hand, CSK's ace all-rounder Sam Curran has decided not to return to India; the team is already eliminated from the playoff race, currently placed in 10th position with 6 points from 12 matches.

The IPL was postponed for a week on May 9 when tensions between Pakistan and India escalated, resulting in air raid alerts during a Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala. A May 10 ceasefire relieved pressure, and the BCCI moved to reschedule the tournament with the final then fixed for June 3. But the teams are still dealing with the fallout of the no-shows caused by injuries and national duties, notably to vital overseas players Archer and Curran, affecting especially RR, at 9th place with 6 points, and CSK as they run through the balance of matches.

For RR, Archer's injury is a significant blow since he was meant to strengthen their bowling attack in the pivotal latter part of the tournament. An RR official confirmed that Archer will not be taking any more part in the IPL, although there's no indication of an interim replacement. CSK has opted not to apply for a replacement for Curran because of his ongoing injury and the need to focus on getting him fit rather than on a return, with them now out of playoff contention.

Uncertainty Surrounds Other English Players

The report further points out that a number of English players, such as Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, and Liam Livingstone, are heading back to India for the resumption of the IPL. Yet, their presence in the playoff stage is uncertain owing to national obligations, namely England's white-ball series against the West Indies from May 23, which conflicts with the latter stages of the IPL.

Also Read: WATCH: Dwayne Bravo shares video of West Indian player touchdown in India for IPL 2025

Also hanging in the balance is the availability of RCB's explosive opener Phil Salt, for whom the participation is still unclear, although other English players are back on the field. RCB, placed 2nd with 16 points from 11 games, will be hoping to get confirmation about Salt's availability as they seek to win their maiden IPL trophy for this delayed season.

When Chennai Super Kings (CSK) went on to take the field to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during Match 57 of the season for IPL 2025, two notable omissions from the playing XI had not gone unnoticed among fans — England all-rounder Sam Curran and young Indian batsman Shaik Rasheed. In a season that has been lacking in terms of momentum for CSK, team management now openly experimented with combinations as they geared up to look towards the future.

In the pre-match briefing, an older CSK player spoke about the emotional value of the ground and how much cricket he used to play there as a child. He made a point that at this stage of the season, the mindset had changed to planning for the next year — figuring out what hasn't worked and where things need to improve in batting and bowling. With playoff chances all but eliminated, this change of strategy is not unexpected.

The CSK think tank is using these remaining fixtures to test bench strength and identify the core squad moving forward. "We’re giving chances to players to figure out our best XI or XII," the player added. It’s a practical move to bring fresh talent into the mix while also analyzing how they fare against quality opposition like KKR.

Also read: [WATCH] Glimpses from Jemimah Rodrigues' 2nd ODI ton against South Africa

Why Curran and Rasheed Miss Out

The reason for firing Shaik Rasheed is due to his disappointing performances over the course of the season. Though he began with promise, Rasheed has failed to convert starts and deliver under pressure. Conversely, replacement Urvil Patel has been in red-hot touch over the past domestic matches and has earned his selection on merit.

As for Sam Curran, the selection looks more tactical than on form. The Eden Gardens pitch is likely to provide turn, and Devon Conway, with his reputation for being a cool customer and having a strong hand against spin, has been selected as a better option for these conditions.

Virat Kohli has often made the headlines for his aggressive intent on the field. Not many have been able to look straight up at his eyes and play with fire but Khaleel Ahmed of the Chennai Super Kings happened to show an intent for the daunting task. The left-arm pacer, who was engaged in an animated chat with Kohli, the last time CSK and RCB interacted, showed signs of courage with his wild reaction after assisting in the former RCB captain's wicket on Saturday. 

Sam Curran was summoned with the white cherry in hand for his second burst after the eleventh over when Kohli looked at his fluent best. On the fifth ball of the over, the Englishman bowled a short ball outside the stumps, asking the batter to reach for it.

However, the former Indian skipper waited for the ball to come and tried to attempt an upper cut. The timing wasn't appropriate on it, and the ball flew straight into the hands of Khaleel Ahmed, stationed at backward point. Having grabbed the ball with firm hands, the Rajasthan pacer threw the ball into the ground out of frustration, sparking a new chapter in their previous controversy.

Khaleel Ahmed takes a brilliant catch, and Virat Kohli walks back for 6⃣2⃣

📸: JioHotstar#IPL2025 #RCBvsCSK #KhaleelAhmed #ViratKohli #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/lxpwjky5tZ

— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) May 3, 2025

Virat Kohli vs Khaleel Ahmed in IPL

Runs - 46
Balls - 25
Avg - 46
SR - 184
4s/6s - 3/4

I can understand bro 😭 pic.twitter.com/ZG3jZtxGJO

— Paras (@parasVK_) May 3, 2025

KHALEEL AHMED Smashing virat kohli balls on ground 🤣😭 deserved treatment pic.twitter.com/VofK0oPtYW

— 🆅🅸🅺🅺🅰🆂🅷👣 (@Vikkash2905) May 3, 2025

चल क्या रहा है दोनों में? Khaleel Ahmed ने Virat Kohli का कैच लेने के बाद बॉल जोर से पटकी #KhaleelAhmed #ViratKohli𓃵 #RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/S5o9PpsmAl

— Anil Thakur (@Ani_iTV) May 3, 2025

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Backdrop of Kohli-Khaleel rivalry

During the eighth match of the ensuing IPL edition, CSK and RCB faced off against one another at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, where Khaleel almost outfoxed Kohli in the third over itself. Donning the new ball, the left-armer bowled a length delivery on the first ball of the third over, that nipped enough to beat the inside edge of the right-hander's intended flick and thud the pad. As it seemed to the naked eye, Khaleel overcelebrated before Kohli's decision to review turned out in RCB's favour.

Following the match, Kohli was seen engaging in an animated discussion with the CSK pacer, who was trying to explain what happened on the field. By his gestures, Khaleel looked apologetic, but Kohli seemed stubborn. The recent catch of Khaleel seemed to have fueled the rivalry to a new chapter, with the 26-year-old yet to respond.

At the time of writing, RCB were batting at 188/5 in 18.5 overs with Khaleel being spanked for a flurry of boundaries by Romario Shepherd.

Sam Curran the all rounder from England have joined the Csk camp after the 4 years gap where he had a tremendous season in 2021 on winning the trophy with Chennai Super Kings where odd even calculation were broken by the team in that season. Though apparently at that season csk had quite good run with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway on fire. 

Sam Curran who missed the season in 2021where he couldn't able to take part due to his back injury and preparing for 2021 T20 world cup. That season was an excellent season for the men in yellow where they won the trophy for the fourth time. Now while Sam has joined in the mere gap of 4 years and Csk has acquired one more title which took their tally to five. Sam has been more engaged in social media where he sneaks about his daily pratice session and so on. 

Read More : RCB playing 11 vs kkr IPL 2025 Match 1

Sam Reveal How Ms Dhoni Enjoys The Game

Sam Curran has joined the csk camp and he shares the insights how Ms Dhoni manages late night practices , in a small interaction session when he was asked about how Ms Dhoni practice session are precceding he went on to say that Dhoni is participating in late-night practice sessions with aim to get back to his explosive best before the season. The other night I was batting with MS and Ravindra Jadeja at 11:30 in the evening. I was thinking, where in the world would you do this? The lights were on, and we were just smacking balls everywhere. 

We have the local players with our group they just there and watch Ms batting it is just the aura of the legend. He is so easy to chat with, and I think his calmness, I guess the big moments he’s been involved in, But he never seems to panic. Further on praising him he moves on saying his tactics and his achievement of the world cup winning captain, and the way he lead csk to win those 5 Ipl trophies. He never shows much emotions, his hotel room is always open for a talk or to play games like Fifa etc. 

Read More : KKR playing 11 vs RCB IPL 2025 Match 1

England Call Up To Wait

All rounder Sam Curran has been out from the team from last November though having a t20 world cup campaign. Eventhough he was swayed away from the champions trophy squard too and now after 4 years of gap Sam is back to Csk and he is aiming to give better perforamance for the team where he can get the England call up as soon as possible. Stating the main frame to the month of June. 

India will be touring England once the Ipl commences with 5 test matches. His focus will be on that by giving good performance for Chennai. Its been much time out from team and I am gutted that I will be having a great games this year. 

IPL 2025 season is just under way for hours to go, there have been several changes in this season some players have left the team and some have reunited with the team. Same as happened to Csk where their old player Sam Curran has joined the team after the season of 2023,his significant role as all rounder to the team gave an added benifit to the team. 

Sam Curran as all rounder gave some match winning performances where the partnership between him and Dhoni was yet remembered, Csk has back then invested in lots of all rounders like Flintoff, Dwayne Bravo, Moeen Ali and Sam Curran it gives an ellite advantage to the to play an extra batter and bowler to the team. It will as good for Sam Curran to have a good Ipl season with Chennai as he is also away from his national team to get into it. 

Read More: Twitter Trends With Hilarious Memes On Virat kohli Bgt Win Is Bigger Than World Cup.

Sam Curran Ommission From The Team

Sam Curran has been out from the England team since last November despite being good in the t20s and ODI he was been sidelined from the team his contribution to the triumph of the 2022 T20 World Cup for England, even though there was some criticism for the cricket board too for neglecting him. Even though his omission in the Champions Trophy was too in speculation. For England Sam has played some exceptional innings around these years. 

Earlier Sam Curran was bought by Csk in 2023 for 18.5 crores, he was the most expensive player at that time. Sam Curran all all-around performance helped ask to clinch their fifth trophy. His great finish against the Punjab Kings in league stages and sometimes valuable in the bowling department where sometimes he used some tough lines and got important wickets too. 

Sam Curran Back To Csk Team

Sam Curran is bought by the Csk team once again after the season of 2023. Sam is excited to be back with Csk as he thinks that his valuable contribution to the team will be the gateway to the England team he has too expressed his thoughts My main aim is probably just to get back into the (England white-ball) side. With England, I guess I've never really found that perfect role. In the Champions Trophy and the series in India (at the start of 2025), there was no hiding that they stacked the batting in terms of playing a lot of batters and those extra quicks.

Read More: Mohammad Siraj Shares An Emotional Bond With Virat Kohli On Retaining Him

I feel like if I get my role right with England, I'll get back into it, who knows what will happen now? The cliche of (needing) runs and wickets is no debate; I've got to keep doing that. I feel in a good space. I was gutted when it happened, but I'm still pretty young and feel like I have matured when it comes to handling the bad stuff.

Being a bit more experienced and reading situations better, I hope I can get back into the team. There is only one way (to do that), hopefully, I can have a really good IPL and see where we are in the summer. If he gets clicked in IPL it will route to the national team, The IPL season begins tomorrow and Csk will be playing their first match against Mumbai on 23 March in Chepauk Stadium. 

The Indian Premier League 2025 mega-auction in Jeddah has been nothing short of a sensational two days of intensive hammer sessions, with teams spending massive sums on a plethora of star cricketers. Despite the flash and expenditure of significant money, some other teams conducted their business very sensibly.

A few big-name stars went for a lower price than fans may have expected. Some franchises made good timing decisions and were fortunate to obtain away match-winners at a lower cost than expected. Having said that, here are the top five steal deals from the recent 2025 IPL Mega Auction.

Glenn Maxwell- INR 4.2 Crores (Punjab Kings)

Mighty Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell got a new side in the form of a homecoming with the Punjab Kings (played from 2014 to 2017 and 2020), obtaining a deal for INR 4.20 crore. The 36-year-old was released after three seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and instantly became a target for several teams.

Sunrisers Hyderabad started the bidding battle, followed by Chennai Super Kings until Punjab Kings won the sale at a lower price. PBKS took advantage of an excellent chance to boost its presence abroad for the next season. Maxwell's IPL career encompasses 134 matches and includes 2,771 runs at a strike rate of 156.73 and 37 wickets.

Sam Curran- INR 2.40 Crores (Chennai Super Kings)

Sam Curran is back in yellow; this time, he's a bargain at INR 2.4 crore. Curran's bowling at the death and ability to swing the new ball make him a valuable asset. Add to that his development as a pinch hitter capable of batting higher up the order, and you have the ideal all-rounder.

His flexibility bridges weaknesses in both the batting and bowling areas. Curran's return seems like a masterstroke, whether he's partnering Matheesha Pathirana in slog overs or adding depth to the batting lineup. In 59 IPL appearances for Chennai Super and Punjab Kings, he scored 883 runs and took 58 wickets.

Adam Zampa- INR 2.4 Crores (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Sunrisers Hyderabad made one of the finest moves of the IPL 2025 auction, signing Australian spinner Adam Zampa for only INR 2.40 crore, which helps fill their spinmeister's void. Following a brief bidding battle with the Rajasthan Royals, the seasoned leg-spinner was unexpectedly bought for nearly his introductory price of INR 2 crore.

His IPL career, which began with Rising Pune Supergiants in 2016, has seen noteworthy performances, including a spectacular 6/19 against his current side, SRH. As his history from spells at RCB and RR suggests, Zampa's arrival at this price range might be the season's best bargain. In his 14-match IPL career, he has 21 wickets at 7.74.

See Also: IPL 2025: Top 5 Shocking Unsold Star Players in the IPL history

Quinton de Kock- INR 3.6 Crores (Kolkata Knight Riders)

The defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, pulled off a masterstroke by signing South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock for only INR 3.60 crore. After the Lucknow Super Giants declined to use their Right to Match (RTM) card, KKR took the chance to improve their team. His probable connection with Sunil Narine at the top of the order will help the team get off to a solid start. 

With his recent international and franchised-based league performances, De Kock can give a vital, robust start to the team's batting. De Kock provides experience, having played 107 IPL matches and scored 3,157 runs, including 23 half-centuries and two centuries.  

Washington Sundar- INR 3.2 Crores (Gujarat Titans)

Washington Sundar was among the most remarkable Indian all-rounders at the auction, and many expected him to sell for a high price. However, he eventually signed with the Gujarat Titans for INR 3.20 crores. GT defeated Lucknow Super Giants in a bidding battle to gain his contract. 

He is a wily off-spinner who has recently been in excellent form. Sundar has played 60 IPL matches and taken 37 wickets at an economy rate of 7.54. He has also scored 378 runs with a strike rate of more than 116, which might help the Titans' lower middle-order batting lineup.

In a gripping encounter at Guwahati, Punjab Kings emerged victorious over Rajasthan Royals with a hard-fought five-wicket win. The skipper, Sam Curran, played a pivotal role in Punjab’s successful chase, showcasing composure with an unbeaten 63 runs, well-supported by Jitesh Sharma’s contribution of 22.

Sam Curran leads from the front with a match-winning knock for Punjab

Despite facing early setbacks, including the dismissals of openers Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow, Punjab’s chase on a challenging pitch was anchored by Curran’s determined innings. Rajasthan Royals, batting first, struggled to build momentum, managing only 144 runs despite efforts from Riyan Parag and Ravichandran Ashwin to revive the innings with a 50-run partnership. Avesh Khan’s early breakthroughs and the spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Ashwin kept Punjab’s chase in check, reducing them to 49/4 initially.

Avesh Khan and spin duo restrict Rajasthan Royals

However, Curran’s leadership and match-winning knock guided Punjab to victory with 1.1 overs to spare, reflecting his pre-match determination to play with pride. Despite glimpses of brilliance from Parag and Ashwin, Rajasthan’s inconsistent batting ultimately led to their defeat.

See Also: SRH set to continue playoff chase after extended break in IPL 2024

This crucial win for Punjab Kings keeps their hopes alive in the tournament as they continue to push for a playoff berth.

Punjab Kings registered a convincing win by 5 wickets over Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati in the 65th match of the ongoing IPL 2024 on Wednesday, May 15. Sam Curran smashed a quick fifty and the bowlers helped the team win.

RR players failed to do well with the bat

Rajasthan Royals won the toss and opted to bat first. RR had a poor start as their opener Yashasvi Jaiswal got out for a mere 4. However, Kohler-Cadmore and Sanju Samson tried to steady the ship but they couldn’t do much. Riyan Parag played yet another good knock of 48 off 34. On the other hand, R Ashwin also scored 28 off 19 with 3 fours and 1 six.

Their efforts helped them post a decent total of 144 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Sam Curran, Harshal Patel and Rahul Chahar claimed 2 wickets each.

ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan shares MS Dhoni’s plans after IPL 2024

Sam Curran scored a quick fifty

While chasing, PBKS lost their in-form opener Prabhsimran Singh for a mere 4. However, Jonny Bairstow and Rilee Rossouw tried to steady the ship and added 30 runs within 5.3 overs before the latter got out. Soon Shashank Singh also got out for a duck.

However, after their dismissals, middle-order batters Sam Curran and Jitesh Sharma stepped up. While Sam scored a quickfire 63 off 41 with 5 fours and 3 sixes, Jitesh Sharma scored 22 and Ashutosh Sharma’s quick 17 helped them to win the match by 5 wickets and 18.5 overs in hand.

Sanju Samson said after the match: “We needed a few more runs. I think we were 10-15 runs short. It was a 160 kind of a wicket. We would have easily got more than 160 (had we played better), that’s where we lost the game. Would have been nice to have one more bowling option. I am getting used to five quality bowlers. We have to sit back and accept that we are going through failures, have lost four games on the trot. Got to find out what’s not working out for us as a team.

Somebody needs to step up, we have so many match-winners in the team. This is the time we need to show character. We need to score more runs. We thought 160-170 would have been a good score. We are not used to playing on such wickets this season where 200-plus totals are getting scored easily. We had to play smart cricket and build those partnerships today. Hopefully the result goes in our way (in the upcoming games.)”

Several key players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 are facing the prospect of early exits from the tournament due to their international commitments. These players, integral to their IPL franchises, are likely to depart earlier than expected, leaving a void in their teams’ line-ups. Let’s know about the details of these potential departures and their impact on the ongoing IPL season.

Reece Topley (RCB)

Representing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Reece Topley is an essential component of England’s T20 World Cup plans. Scheduled to leave in the third week of May, Topley’s absence could pose a challenge for RCB’s bowling lineup as they strive for success in the IPL.

Sikandar Raza (PBKS)

Playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS), Sikandar Raza is expected to bid adieu to the IPL by the end of April. With Zimbabwe set to tour Bangladesh for five T20Is, Raza’s departure could disrupt PBKS’ balance in the middle order.

Mustafizur Rahman (CSK)

For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mustafizur Rahman’s services might not be available in May due to Bangladesh’s T20I series against Zimbabwe and the USA. Rahman’s absence could affect CSK’s bowling options in the crucial stages of the tournament.

Jos Buttler (RR)

Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) Jos Buttler could receive a call back in the third week of May as England prepares to face Pakistan in four T20Is starting from May 22. Buttler’s potential departure could leave a significant void in RR’s batting lineup.

Will Jacks (RCB)

Another player from RCB, Will Jacks, is a vital cog in England’s T20 World Cup plans. Like Topley, he might leave the IPL early to participate in T20Is against Pakistan, potentially impacting RCB’s middle-order stability.

Liam Livingstone (PBKS)

PBKS’s Liam Livingstone is another English player who could exit the IPL prematurely to feature in the Pakistan series. His departure might disrupt PBKS’s plans, especially considering his all-round capabilities.

Moeen Ali (CSK)

CSK’s Moeen Ali could face unavailability issues with England facing Pakistan from May 22 onwards. Ali’s departure might leave a void in CSK’s middle order and spin department.

Phil Salt (KKR)

Representing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), opener Phil Salt might also face an early exit from the IPL due to England’s series against Pakistan. KKR could struggle to find a suitable replacement for Salt at the top of the order.

Joshua Little (Gujarat Titans)

Although he hasn’t featured in any games this season, Joshua Little of Gujarat Titans might have to leave in May as Ireland plays Pakistan in three T20Is from May 10 to 14. His absence might not directly impact Gujarat Titans but could affect their squad depth.

Sam Curran (PBKS)

PBKS’s Sam Curran, a key member of the team, might be unavailable towards the end of the league stage due to his international commitments. His absence could pose challenges for PBKS in both batting and bowling departments.

Jonny Bairstow (PBKS)

Another PBKS player, Jonny Bairstow, might have to depart early to be available for England’s T20Is against Pakistan. His early exit could disrupt PBKS’s batting plans and team balance.

See Also: Shubman Gill gives an epic reply to ‘leaving it too late for a win’ comment

These potential departures due to international commitments highlight the delicate balance between IPL participation and national team duties. Cricket enthusiasts will keenly observe how these developments unfold and the subsequent impact on their respective IPL franchises.