Batting Promotion Shakes Up CSK’s Best XI For IPL 2025

A bold batting promotion and a surprising exclusion have sparked debate over Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) ideal playing XI for IPL 2025. Former CSK star Ambati Rayudu, who played a key role in the franchise’s three IPL titles, has named his preferred XI, making some unexpected decisions.

“MS Dhoni should bat higher in the order, and Noor Ahmad doesn’t fit into my XI,” Rayudu revealed while discussing CSK’s lineup for the upcoming season.

CSK’s Ambitions For IPL 2025

Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2025 with a historic goal: to become the first team to win six IPL titles. Ruturaj Gaikwad has taken over as captain, following a major reshuffle after the IPL 2025 mega auction. The franchise invested heavily in Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad, acquiring him for Rs 10 crore using the Right-to-Match (RTM) option. However, Rayudu’s ideal XI surprisingly omits him.

Rayudu’s Best CSK XI For IPL 2025

Here’s the lineup Rayudu believes is CSK’s strongest:

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C) – Leading from the front as an opening batsman.
2. Devon Conway – A steady presence at the top.
3. Shivam Dube – Providing power in the middle order.
4. MS Dhoni (WK) – Promoted up the order for more impact.
5. Moeen Ali – A versatile all-rounder.
6. Ravindra Jadeja – A key player with bat and ball.
7. Ben Stokes – Adding strength as an all-rounder.
8. Deepak Chahar – Spearheading the pace attack.
9. Matheesha Pathirana – The Sri Lankan speedster.
10. Maheesh Theekshana – Providing spin options.
11. Tushar Deshpande – Completing the bowling attack.

Key Decisions In Rayudu’s XI

• Dhoni’s Batting Promotion: Traditionally a finisher, Dhoni moving up the order aims to maximize his impact.
• Noor Ahmad Excluded: Despite CSK’s heavy investment, Rayudu believes there’s no place for the Afghan spinner in the best XI.

CSK’s Strengths And Weaknesses

Strengths:

• A balanced mix of youth and experience.
• Strong all-rounders adding depth to batting and bowling.
• Dhoni’s leadership, even if he isn’t captain.

Potential Weaknesses:

• The absence of a second specialist spinner could hurt on turning tracks.
• Fast-bowling depth remains a concern.

Reactions To Rayudu’s Selection

Experts and fans have mixed reactions to Rayudu’s XI:

• “Dropping Noor Ahmad is surprising, given his price tag and talent,” said a former selector.
• “Dhoni moving up the order could be a masterstroke,” remarked an ex-CSK teammate.

Final Thoughts: Will CSK Follow Rayudu’s Vision?

While Rayudu’s choices are intriguing, CSK’s final XI will depend on team management’s strategy and form. With a blend of experience and firepower, the franchise remains a top contender for IPL 2025 glory. Fans eagerly await how Dhoni and his team shape up in their quest for a record-breaking sixth title.

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