It was a thrilling season of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this year with teams outperforming each other and young talents proving their prowess in the much-coveted tournament. With teams like Baroda, MP, Delhi and Mumbai reaching the semi-finals, Delhi and Baroda were eventually left behind. In the finals of the SMAT 2024, Mumbai defeated the former Ranji Trophy champions, Madhya Pradesh to win this year’s title.

Hopes high after several CSK players leave their mark in the prestigious tournament

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been one of the most successful team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The men-in-yellow have won the IPL title five times, level with Mumbai Indians. Over the years, CSK has been home to some of the most impactful IPL players, including the likes of Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni, Faf Du Plessis, and Dwayne Bravo.

With the new IPL season around corner, several CSK players have left their mark in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Fans now hope that these players could repeat their impressive ?form for their IPL franchise.

Read More: WATCH: CSK’s new recruit Shre??yas Gopal bags a stunning hattrick against Hardik Pandya’s Baroda in SMA?T 2024

5 CSK players who impressed fans and analysts alike in the SMAT 2024

• Ruturaj Gaikwad (Maharashtra):

The captain of the Chennai Super Kings has announced that he is in-form with the bat ahead of the upcoming IPL season. Playing for his domestic side, Maharashtra in SMAT 2024 he displayed his exemplary skills as a batter. The highlight of his SMAT campaign was a thunderous 97-run innings against Services. The 27-year-old dominated the opposition bowling line-up scoring 6 boundaries and 8 sixes. His innings helped Maharashtra reach a mammoth total of 232 and ulti??mately commanding a 43-run victory.

• Shivam Dube (Mumbai):

An instrumental part of the T20 World Cup winning squad, Shivam Dube is known for his power hitting and the 31-year-old did just that for his domestic side, Mumbai. Dube was at the peak of his SMAT prowess against Services when he hit 71 off just 36 balls, including seven towerin??g sixes in his innings. This per??formance from Dube could be a cheerful sign for the CSK fans of his upcoming IPL dominance.

• Mukesh Choudhary (Maharashtra):

Mukesh Choudhary’s epic run in the SMAT 2024 is well known. Wickets came raining down for the pacer who took 15 wickets for his domestic side Mumbai in the tournament. The 28-year-old thus became the third highest wicket-taker of the tournament level with S.N. Thakur of Mumbai. Add?itionally, Choudhary was one of the most efficient bowler in SMAT 2024 with an economy rate of 8.81 in 6 matches.

• Shreyas Gopal (Karnataka):

Chennai Super Kings recently acquired him in the mega IPL auction. The 31-year-old proved why he was chosen by the CSK management in SMAT 2024. The 31-year-old leg spinner engraved his moment in SMAT 2024 with a brilliant hat-trick against Baroda. Representing Karnataka, Gopal first got rid of Shashwat Sharma for his domestic side and then got rid of Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya on gold?en ducks. Even though Karnataka lost that match but because of Gopal’s 4/19 spell, the match got more thrilling towards the end. Gopal was also the fifth highest wicket-taker in SMAT 2024.

• Kamlesh Nagarkoti (Rajasthan)

The 24-year-old young pacer was a prodigy find for Chennai? Super Kings. Nagarkoti gave consistent performances in the SMAT 2024 for his domestic side, Rajasthan. He was a top wicket taker for the Rajasthan side taking 10 wickets in 7 matches with an economy rate of 6.70. This perform??ance from a youngster has raised hopes of CSK fans. Nagarkoti can be a surprise inclusion for the team in the upcoming season.

Also Read: Chennai Super Kings IPL 2025 Squad: Compl??ete players list of CSK after the mega auction

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Shreyas Gopal, the leg-spinning all-rounder recently acquired by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for Rs 30 lakhs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, delivered a stunning performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 on December 3.

Representing Karnataka, Gopal picked up a sensational hat-trick against Baroda, including the prized scalps of all-round superstars Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya, both dismissed for golden ducks. Despite Karnataka’s eventual four-wicket loss, Gopal’s magical spell of 4/19 stood out as the defining moment of the match.

Karnataka’s sensational start against Baroda in a run-chase

Karnataka batted first and posted a competitive, though modest, total of 170 runs on the board. While their batters showed glimpses of form, Baroda’s disciplined bowling ensured they kept Karnataka in check. Baroda’s chase initially appeared to be a mere formality, with their top order firing on all cylinders. Shashwat Rawat’s explosive 63 off 37 deliveries put Baroda firml??y in control as they cruised toward the target with ease. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Gopal entered the attack. With Baroda on a roll, Gopal provided the breakthrough Karnataka desperately needed.

Remarkable hat-trick in SMAT 2024: Key wickets of Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya

Shreyas first removed the dangerous Rawat, whose mistimed shot ended in the safe hands of Manish Pandey. Next, Gopal stunned the Baroda camp with back-to-back blows. Hardik, walking in with characteristic swagger, misread a deceptive delivery from Gopal, resulting in a tame dismissal for a golden duck. The very next ball brought Krunal to the crease, only for Gopal to trap him plumb in front with a perfectly pitched delivery, completing a spectacular hat-trick. The Pandya brothers, cornerstones of Baroda’s batting lineup, were left stunned as the crowd erupted in appreciation of Gopal’s brilliance. His jubilant celebration showcased the sheer joy of turning ??the tide in Karnataka’s favor, albeit temporarily.

Here’s the video:

Triple Treat 👌👌👌

🔟.1�?– Shashwat Rawat
🔟.2�? Hardik Pandya
🔟.3�?– Krunal Pandya

Re-live Shreyas Gopal's brilliant hat-trick against Baroda in Indore 🎥 🔽

That catch on the hat-trick ball 🔥#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ //t.co/VizwmvftQI pic.twitter.com/RxSHIVyqy5

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 3, 2024

Despite the devastation caused by Gopal’s spell, Baroda found resilience in the partnership between Bhanu Pania and Vishnu Solanki. The duo weathe?red the storm, stabilizing the innings with a composed stand that ensured Baroda crossed the finish line with four wickets in hand. Gopal’s efforts, though extraordinary, couldn’t prevent Karnataka from slipping to defeat in this closely contested encounter.

Also WATCH: Gujarat Titans spinner Sai Kishore faces a destructive 24-run onslaught in Syed? ?Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

CSK’s fresh addition in the IPL 2025

At 31 ye??ars of age, Shreyas Gopal has been in stellar form this domestic season. Returning to Karnataka after a season with Kerala in 2023-24, he has already taken 10 wickets in the ongoing SMAT, adding to his reputatio?n as a reliable all-rounder. Gopal’s contributions earlier in the season helped Karnataka secure their first win in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy campaign.

CSK’s decision to acquire him at his base price of Rs 30 l?akhs during the IPL 2025 mega auction appears to be a shrewd move. Gopal brings not only his leg-spin prowess but also valuable lower-order batting skills and years of domestic experience.

Gopal’s hat-trick against Baroda serves as a reminder of his ability to turn games on their head. As he gears up for the IPL season with CSK, his form in the domes??tic circuit will undoubtedly bolster his confidence. CSK fans and management alike will hope that Gopal continues to deliver match-winning performances in the yellow jersey, proving to be a key asset in their IPL 2025 campaign.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya takes CSK’s new recruit Gurjapneet? Singh to the cleaners in Syed Mushtaq Ali T?rophy

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In a heartening moment during the IPL 2025 mega auction, Deepak Chahar expressed his gratitude to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for their determined efforts to secure his services despite having limited funds in their purse. Chahar, who has been a key figure in CSK’s bowling attack since 2018, was eventually picked up by Mumbai Indians (MI), ending his seven-year-long association with the franchise. Though disappointed by the out?come, Chahar acknowle??dged CSK’s relentless bidding and shared his special bond with the team, particularly with captain MS Dhoni.

CSK’s strong push for getting back Deepak Chahar in IPL 2025 auction

Notably, during the mega auction, Chahar’s name came up on Day 2, ?at a time when CSK had already spent most of their available purse, leaving them with just INR 13 crore. Despite their financial constra??ints, CSK made a strong push to retain Chahar, bidding up to INR 9 crore. However, the competition was intense, and Mumbai ultimately outbid CSK, securing Chahar for INR 9.25 crore.

Chahar expresses gratitude towards CSK

Chahar, aware of CSK’s limited funds, knew that it would be difficult for the franchise to retain him. He had hoped to continue his IPL journey with CSK, especially due to his special connection with the team and its captain MS Dhoni, who has been a significant su?pport throughout his career. Despite the setback, Chahar expressed no hard feelings, understanding that the dynamics of the auction made it challenging for CSK to bring him back.

Also READ?: IPL 2025 mega auction: CSK fans bid emotional farewell to Deepak Chahar after his Mumbai India?ns signing

Chahar was deeply touched by the fact that CSK, with only INR 13 crore remaining, still valued him enough to push their bid up to INR 9 crore. This act, he mentioned, reflected the strong bond he shared with the franchise. He credited MS Dhoni for his special connection with CSK, stating that it was because of Dho?ni’s unwavering support from the very beginning that he wanted to stay with the team. He appreciated the effort CSK made to bring him back, acknowledging that while he knew it was a tough challenge due to ??the financial situation, their continued interest in him spoke volumes about their trust and respect for his contributions to the team over the years.

“Mahi bhai has supported me from the start, that’s why I wanted to go to CSK. But my name came on the second day at the auction, so I had a fair idea that it would be difficult for me to get back to CSK. They had a low purse, but still bid till �? crore despite having only �?3 crore left,” Chahar told SportsTak.

“I had made up my mind that it would be difficult. Last year, my name came first, that’s why it was easier to get back to CSK,” he added.

Chahar’s impact at CSK

During his tenure with CSK, Chahar became a key fig?ure in their bowling attack. His abi??lity to bowl fiery spells in the powerplay overs was crucial to the team’s success, contributing significantly to CSK’s three IPL title wins in 2018, 2021, and 2023. Over his 76 matches with the franchise, Chahar took 76 wickets, establishing himself as one of the league’s most dependable pacers.

Also READ: Chennai Super Kings IPL 2025 Squad: Complete players list of CSK aft?er the mega auction

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The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have successfully built a well-rounded squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season following the mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Held over two days, the auction saw CSK make strategic moves to b??olster the?ir team and aim for another title-winning campaign.

CSK’s IPL 2025 Squad

The squad features a mix of experienced stars a?nd yo?ung talents, retaining their core group while introducing some exciting new faces.

• Retained Core Players:
  CSK retained their trusted veterans, including captain MS Dhoni, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. These players have been instrumental in CSK’s previous successes and remain crucial to the team’s plans.
• Auction Highlights:
  Among the big purchases was Noor Ahmad, a promising young spinner from Afghanistan, acquired for INR 10 crore. Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin returned to the CSK fold, bringing experience and skill to the spin department. Other notable acquisitions included Rahul Tripathi, Rachin Ravindra and Nathan Ellis.
• Complete CSK Squad:
  Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Rachin Ravindra, R. Ashwin, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Shaik Rasheed, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Deepak Hooda, Gurjapneet Singh, Nathan Ellis, Jamie Overton, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Shreyas Gopal, Vansh Bedi, Andre Siddarth.

Also READ: IPL 2025 mega auction – CSK fans bid emotional farewell to Deepak Chahar after his Mumbai Indians signing

Strategic depth for the upcoming season

With a mix of explosive batters, reliable all-rounders, and world-class bowlers, CSK looks poised to continue their legacy in the IPL. The manag?ement has retained their focus on balance, ensuring depth in both batting and bowling departments.

As CSK gears up for the IPL 2025 season, fans will eagerly anticipate seeing their favourite stars in action and watching the new recruits adapt to the team’s culture. With Dhoni behind the stumps, CSK’s journey promises to be an exciting one.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin’s heartfelt reaction to CSK homecoming at IPL 2025 mega auction

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, promises to be a game-changing event for franchises looking to reshape their squads. Among the teams that consistently capture attention is the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), renowned for their meticulous strategies and knack for finding the right players. With MS Dhoni likely to play a more advisory role in t?he franchise, CSK could look to lay the groundwork for their next phase of dominance.

CSK’s auction plans have always been a fascinating blend of experience and emerging talent, and fans expect the team to make some bold m?oves. Here’s a closer look at five players CSK might target to build?? a well-rounded squad for the upcoming IPL seasons.

5 players CSK can go after at the IPL 2025 auction

1. Rishabh Pant: The heir to MS Dhoni’s legacy?

Rishabh Pant‘s combination of explosive batting and wicketkeeping prowess makes him one of the most sought-after players in the league. His ability to handle pressure situations with composure and win games single-handedly has earned him a reputation as a match-winner. For CSK, Pant could be the ideal candidate to step into MS Dhoni‘s shoes in the long term.

If CSK manages to secure Pant in the mega auction, the franchise could face an interesting decision: whether to hand him the captaincy or continue with Ruturaj Gaikwad as the skipper. Pant’s previous captaincy experience with Delhi Capitals and his high-energy approach on the field make him a strong contender. Adding Pant to the squad would not only boost CSK’s middle order but also ensure they have a leader who ?embodies the fearless spirit of the team. Under Dhoni’s mentorship??, Pant could evolve into a refined leader, ready to carry forward CSK’s legacy.

2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Experience meets strategy

One of the most consistent performers in the IPL, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has an economy rate of under 8, which speaks volumes about his control and accuracy. His expertise with the new ball and in death overs makes him a valuable asset for any team. For CSK, his ability to swing the ball and execute pinpoint yorkers could prove ??invaluable on the slow and spin-friendly pit?ches of the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

CSK have always valued experienced players who can bring stability and tactical acumen to the squad. With years of experience playing on similar tracks in Uttar Pradesh, Bhuvneshwar would fit seamlessly in?to CSK’s bowling setup. His calm demeanor and ability to deliver in crunch situations could be the perfect complement to the team’s mix of youth and experience.

Also READ – ‘If not CSK, I want�?#8217;: Deepak Chahar names his second favourite franchise after CSK ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction

3. KL Rahul: A leader in the making

Since his debut in the IPL, KL Rahul has been a consistent performer, amassing over 4,600 runs in 132 matches. His ability to adapt to different roles in the batting order makes him a versatile player. As a captain, Rahul has led Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, showcasing his tactical mindset and? calm leadership under pressure.

CSK could look to Rahul as a key figure in their future plans. Whether as a captain or an experienced hand to support Gaikwad, Rahul’s inclusion could provide the team with stability at the top order and a reliable leader. His proven track rec??ord as a top-order batter, coupled? with his leadership experience, makes him a prime target for the auction.

4. Rachin Ravindra: CSK’s future match-winner?

Rachin Ravindra, the talented all-rounder from New Zeala?nd, has shown glimpses of his potential in the IPL. With his left-arm spin and solid middle-order batting, he brings versatility to any lineup. CSK’s history of nurturing young talent makes Ravindra a perfect fit for their plans.

As Ravindra Jadeja approaches the latter stages of his career,?? CSK could look to groom Rachin as their next all-round superstar. Despite limited opportunities in IPL 2024, Rachin demonstrated his batting prowess and ability to deliver under pressure. His inclusion would not only strengthen CSK’s middle order but also add depth to their spin-bowling department, ensuring continuity in their strategy of dominating on slow tracks.

5. James Anderson: Age is just a number

True to their reputation for valuing experience, CSK might consider bringing in James Anderson, one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. Despite his age, Anderson continues to defy expectations wit?h his skill in swinging the ball and execu??ting precise lines and lengths.

For CSK, Anderson could serve a dual role: as a strike bowler and as a mentor to young talents like Matheesha Pathirana. His wealth of experience and tactical intelligence would help the younger bowlers refine their skills and develop strategies for high-pressure situations. Anderson’s presence would add depth to CSK’s bowling attack and align perfectly with the team’s ethos of blending ??youth with experience.

Also READ: 17-year-old Mumbai batter captivates CSK and MS Dhoni’s attention ahead of IPL 2025 auction

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Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings have set their sights on a rising star from Mumbai, as they prepare for the IPL 2025 mega auction. The 17-year-old opening batter has been making waves in the domestic circuit, showcasing his talent in the ongoing Ranji Trophy competition.

Young Mumbaikar catches MS Dhoni’s attention

Ayush Mhatre a young 17 year old Mumbai batter’s performances have been nothing short of impressive. In the current Ranji Trophy season, he has amassed 321 runs at an average of 35.66, including a standout innings of 176 runs against Maharashtra on a challenging pitch at the MCA ground. This remarkable feat has not only highlighted his potential but also caught the attention of cricketing legends, including CSK’s iconic captain MS Dhoni.

CSK’s interest and upcoming trials

According to reports from the Times of India, Mhatre’s consistent batting has led to an invitation for trials with Chennai Super Kings. The franchise’s management, including MD and CEO Kasi Viswanathan, has expressed their interest in Mhatre, urging the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to allow him to participate in the selection camp scheduled between November 16 and 23. This six-day window comes right after the fifth round of the Ranji Trophy and before the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy begins.

Also READ: 3 teams that can target Steve Smith in the IPL 2025 mega auction

17-year-old prodigy’s journey so far

Mhatre’s journey to this point has been defined by hard work and determination. Hailing from Virar, he undertakes a daily commute of 46 kilometers to practice at Mumbai’s famed Oval Maidan. His dedication was evident even before his recent successes; he had already made a name for himself by scoring a half-century in his debut Ranji match and was recognized as one of MCA’s Under-19 team stars for 2023-24.

In addition to his impressive statistics, Mhatre’s approach at the crease reflects maturity beyond his years. He credits his success to focusing on small targets during partnerships, a strategy that helped him build momentum during crucial innings. His ability to handle pressure and deliver under challenging conditions has drawn comparisons to established players like Prithvi Shaw, who has also taken an in??terest in mentoring him.

As CSK prepares for the auction, they have retained key players including skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, both valued at 18 crores. The franchise is keen on blending experienced players with fresh ta?le?nt like Mhatre, aiming to maintain their competitive edge in the league.

Also READ: 3 t??eams who can target Jos Buttler in the IPL 2025 mega ??auction

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In a strategic move ahead of the 2025 IPL players’ auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have retained their former captain, MS Dhoni, as an uncapped player at �? crore. The decision, which has drawn ?both praise and speculation, allows CSK to capitalize on Dhoni’s presence while freeing up funds to potentially secure high-profile additions to their lineup in the upcoming auction.

Former cricketer takes a witty dig at the Chennai Super Kings strategy 

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif praised CSK’s smart strategy, noting that by Dhoni taking a lower salary, the team saved �?0-15 crore. This move allows CSK more budget flexibility to bid for top players in the auction, a decision Kaif believes was influenced by the emotional desire to see Dhoni play another season.

“CSK have played really well. They have saved 10-15 crores. I feel that the way this rule was brought back because we were driven by emotions, and we all really wanted MS Dhoni to play another year…I feel CSK played very smartly there. Yes he is taking less money, but it would allow CSK to buy big names players at the auction,” cricketer-turned-commentator said on JioCinema.

CSK smart move 

He also expressed that players who have represented India internationally, like him, shouldn’t be classified under the “uncapped player” rule in the IPL even if they haven’t played recently. He noted that CSK leveraged this rule effectively, allowing fans to enjoy watching Dhoni play another season, which ultimately benefited the Super Kings by enabling them to buy two extra players in the auction.

“I feel whichever player plays for India, I was 36 when I last played an international match for India… now if I get dropped from the team, but continue to have a good IPL run, then I should not have come under the uncapped player rule. These are those players who have not played an international match yet. Yeh toh chal chal di CSK walein bariyan. And they played it so well, because we all became emotional, having git the opportunity to see Dhoni for another year in IPL. I feel CSK got the advantage of buying two extra players at the auction,” he added.

Also READ: IPL 2025 Retention: LIVE Upda??tes | Players retained and RTM cards left

All IPL teams finalize retention list ahead of auction

In the lead-up to the IPL 2025 auction, which is set to take place in Riyadh on November 24 and 25, all ten IPL franchises have released their official retention lists. With each team making strategic choices on player retention, the auction promises intense bidding wars as franchises vie for marquee players. This year’s auction marks the first-ever IPL event in Riyadh, underscoring the league’s grow??ing global footprint.

The 10 franchises – Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Titans, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Sunrisers Hyderabad – have all confirmed their retained players, setting the stage for a blockbuster auction event.

CSK’s retention list 

Ruturaj Gaikwad (�?8 crore), Matheesha Pathirana(�?3 crore), Shivam Dube (�?2 crore), Ravin??dra Jadeja(�?8 crore?), MS Dhoni(�? crore)

Also READ: IPL 2025 Retention: Complete list of players retained w??ith their price

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