IPL 2025: AI-Predicted Starting Playing XI for Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings, 2023. (Source – BCCI/IPL)

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again took calculated decisions during the recent Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, forming a strong squad that has received applause from all quarters. With five titles under their belt, the team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad is looking forward to a record-breaking sixth championship title.

The auction saw CSK make some brilliant acquisitions, balancing experience with youth. The most talked-about comeback was that of veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, who returns to franchise after a decade, reuniting with the franchise for an INR 9.75 crore. The team’s most expensive purchase was Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad, secured for a whopping INR 10 crore.

The squad also saw the additions including the return of Devon Conway, the aggressive batting of Rahul Tripathi, and the all-around capabilities of Deepak Hooda. The bowling attack received a significant boost with the addition of left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed, Sam Curran, and overseas pacers Nathan Ellis and Jamie Overton.

The retained core of MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana will form a solid core. With a perfect mix of experienced players and exciting young talents, CSK looks solid to continue its legacy of excellence in the IPL.

Let’s see how AI-predicted CSK’s starting playing XI for IPL 2025

Openers: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Devon Conway

Dewon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad. (Photo Source : BCCI/IPL)

Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway will open for the former champions. Both had previously opened for the franchise and have a good understanding in the middle. The two will not only form a right-left combination at the top but will also help the team get off to a successful start. Gaikwad will play more as an anchor, while the Kiwi batter will take the more aggressive route and strike from the first ball.

Middle-order: Rahul Tripathi, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni. (Source – Getty Images)

Chennai’s middle order includes Rahul Tripathi, Shivam Dube, and MS Dhoni. Tripathi, who formerly played for the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Rajasthan Royals, has been brilliant in the middle overs and can hit big shots at will. Dube, on the other hand, had a breakthrough season with Chennai in the previous edition, thanks to his ability to close games and hit big sixes. He will be in charge of forming partnerships and ensuring that the scoring rate remains in check. Meanwhile, Dhoni will once again wow the crowd when he takes the pitch. The veteran has been an excellent finisher and wicketkeeper, and his presence has always aided the squad on critical occasions.

All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Sam Curran

Ravindra Jadeja. (Source – Getty Images)

CSK has put up a formidable trio of all-rounders, including the lethal Indian duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. The team has also welcomed back English all-rounder Sam Curran. These three will not only add bowling depth to the side but also be handy batters down the order. With batting until the No.8 position, the team hopes to once again shine with their performances.

Bowlers: Matheesha Pathirana, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary

Matheesha Pathirana. (Source -IPL/BCCI))

The pace bowling is particularly remarkable, as they retained the death over specialist Matheesha Pathirana. The Sri Lankan speedster has impressed the Anbuden supporters with his lengths and yorkers. Mukesh Choudhary would join him as his pace-bowling partner. The right-armer formerly played for CSK, taking 16 wickets. In the spin contingent, the team has signed Afghan spinner Noor Ahmed, who will bowl in the middle overs and is expected to see spin conditions well.

CSK’s AI Predicted XI in IPL 2025

Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Sam Curran, Matheesha Pathirana, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Ravichandran Ashwin