Rishabh Pant Unlikely to Join CSK Despite Strong Links in IPL 2025 Auction

Since Rishabh Pant's release from the Delhi Capitals was confirmed, IPL franchises have been eyeing the dynamic wicket-keeper batter for the upcoming 2025 auction. Among the teams reportedly interested, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been strongly linked with Pant, who is seen by many fans as the natural successor to MS Dhoni. However, it seems increasingly challenging for CSK to secure Pant, with various constraints affecting their auction plans.

CSK has retained players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni, leaving them with just one Right to Match (RTM) card. It's expected that CSK may use their RTM card on Devon Conway, their reliable opening batsman, rather than saving it for Pant. With only INR 55 crore remaining in their auction budget, it might be financially unfeasible for CSK to compete in a bidding war for Pant, who is anticipated to fetch around INR 25–30 crore.

If Pant’s bidding reaches these figures, teams like Punjab Kings (PBKS), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are in better financial positions to sign him. PBKS, for instance, has the highest remaining budget at INR 110.5 crore, having retained only two uncapped players. RCB and LSG, with INR 83 crore and INR 69 crore, respectively, are also in strong positions to make substantial bids for high-profile players like Pant.

Interestingly, reports also suggest that a CSK return could be on the cards for Ravichandran Ashwin. Released by Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin has expressed a desire to play for his home team once again, and this auction could provide CSK with an opportunity to bring back their former spin maestro.