As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up for IPL 2025 with a mix of their classic core and fresh faces, their opening combinations are set to be crucial in determining their campaign’s success. With the likes of MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and new additions such as Rahul Tripathi and Rachin Ravindra, CSK’s top-order options look exciting. Here’s a breakdown of their top three possible opening pairs for the season, ranked from third to first. These pairing promises aggression and adaptability at the top.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rahul Tripathi
Ruturaj Gaikwad, the dependable CSK opener, would complement Rahul Tripathi, whose explosive style makes him a perfect partner. Tripathi has a solid record as an opener in T20 cricket, amassing 759 runs in 27 innings with a strike rate of 140.3. His ability to find gaps and keep the dot ball percentage low (37.7%) could add a dynamic edge to the CSK innings.
Although this pair has the potential for quick starts, the concern lies in their consistency, as Tripathi’s average of 33.0 suggests occasional lapses in converting starts into big scores. Nevertheless, this duo could excel against bowling attacks that lack early control.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra, the Kiwi all-rounder, adds a left-handed option to the top order, breaking the monotony of a right-hand-heavy lineup. Known for his attacking intent, Ravindra boasts an impressive strike rate of 154.1 in T20s. His flexibility as an opener, demonstrated across formats, could be instrumental in providing CSK with aggressive starts.
Pairing him with the calm and calculated Gaikwad could create a balanced partnership. However, Ravindra’s inconsistency—averaging just 19.0 in T20s—raises questions about his reliability in high-pressure situations. Yet, his flair and potential for quickfire runs make this combination a thrilling prospect.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway
This tried-and-tested duo remains CSK’s most reliable opening partnership. Both players were instrumental in CSK’s victorious IPL 2023 campaign, offering stability and consistency. The right-hand-left-hand combination keeps bowlers guessing, and their ability to build substantial partnerships has already been proven.
The only downside is their cautious starts, as both players require time to settle, which could affect the scoring rate in challenging conditions. Despite this, their chemistry and track record make them the top choice for CSK in IPL 2025.