IPL Auction 2024: Crafting a Winning Strategy for CSK ? – Targets, Purse, and Slots

#CSK already has a settled squad, but will have Rs 31.4 Cr to spend at #IPL2024 auction. Here's what they can do.

When the Chennai Super Kings land in Dubai for the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction on December 19, they come in with the title of defending champions, boasting one of the largest squads and the fourth-highest budget. By observing these three aspects, it's clear that they are in a solid position and don't require significant adjustments.

However, the pursuit of perfection is a constant in the Lions' den. So, let's delve into every aspect of Mahendra Singh Dhoni's team, from their current composition to potential strategies.

How Does CSK’s Squad & XI Look Now?

For teams not as fortunate, or let's say, not as careful, it might be a bit annoying that CSK could choose to skip the auction entirely and still show up with a team capable of winning the trophy. Renowned for their stability, they kept 19 players, the highest retention among all teams, and now have Rs 31.40 crore to use. They need to fill a maximum of six slots, with up to three slots reserved for overseas players.

Firstly, let us have a look at the players retained by CSK:

These are the players retained by the Chennai Super Kings: Ajay Mandal, Ajinkya Rahane, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Mitchell Santner, Moeen Ali, MS Dhoni, Mukesh Choudhary, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Shivam Dube, Simarjeet Singh, Tushar Deshpande.

Now, let us have a look at the make-up of the current CSK playing XI:

The Super Kings boast a remarkable opening duo in Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad, tallying an impressive 1262 runs in the IPL 2023. Including Ajinkya Rahane, the addition of Shivam Dube, who scored 418 runs last season, makes for arguably the most powerful top three in the league. Further down the order, Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali contributed with crucial cameos.