The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have built an enduring legacy in the IPL, dominating most seasons and earning five titles, making them one of the league’s most successful franchises.
However, the thought process behind their player acquisitions, strategic foresight, and foundational values is less well-known.
In a recent conversation with CSK’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, former CSK star Ambati Rayudu touched on the core of the franchise and its future, including plans for the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Viswanathan shared insights on retaining key players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, and Shivam Dube.
“As always, we’ve tried to keep a strong core. We consulted with Ruturaj, MS, and Fleming and decided to retain players who have been crucial to CSK,” Viswanathan revealed.
When asked about Dhoni’s future, Viswanathan added, “With Mahi bhai, everything comes out at the last moment. Knowing his passion for CSK and the following he has, we hope he continues. As long as MS wants to play, the doors are open.”
Viswanathan also touched on the possibility of a CSK women’s team in the Women’s Premier League. “Maybe when the BCCI expands the women’s competition, we’ll look into it. We couldn’t join last time due to commitments in South Africa,” he noted.
Reflecting on the initial decision to sign Dhoni in 2008, Viswanathan explained, “When the IPL was launched, other franchises had icon players—Sachin in Mumbai, Dravid in Bangalore, Ganguly in Kolkata. After seeing MS, we felt he would be a better bet. Mr. Srinivasan and the team decided on MS, and working with him over the years proved we made the right choice.”
Lastly, he highlighted their choice to retain young talents like Matheesha Pathirana, emphasizing that his potential makes him valuable to any team.