For IPL 2025, CSK’s batting lineup could gain a significant edge through consistent top-order performances, dynamic opening partnerships, and impactful power-hitting in the middle order. With versatility against spin and pace, the players’ ability to anchor, accelerate, and finish matches strengthens the team’s prospects for a successful campaign.
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been a cornerstone of CSK’s success, demonstrating remarkable consistency and flair in the IPL. Despite being overshadowed by Virat Kohli’s historic season in IPL 2024, Gaikwad claimed the second spot on the run-scoring chart with an impressive 583 runs, earning the Orange Cap in a highly competitive season. His blend of anchoring the innings and maintaining a strong strike rate underscores his importance to CSK’s batting arsenal.
Gaikwad’s technical prowess against both pace and spin, coupled with his calm demeanor under pressure, makes him a linchpin at the top of the order. His ability to convert promising starts into substantial scores provides the team with a reliable platform for the middle order to exploit. Moreover, his leadership experience, having previously captained CSK, adds strategic depth, ensuring both stability and vision in their batting approach. Heading into IPL 2025, Gaikwad’s role will remain pivotal as CSK looks to build on his exceptional contributions.
2. Devon Conway
Devon Conway has emerged as a key player for CSK, earning admiration for his dynamic and reliable performances at the top of the order. His impressive T20I record, amassing 1,408 runs in 50 matches at an average of 38.05 and a strike rate of 127.76, reflects his ability to adapt and excel in the shortest format. Conway’s mix of aggression and technique makes him an ideal opening partner for Ruturaj Gaikwad, forming a balanced and formidable duo.
With a high score of 99* and ten half-centuries in T20Is, Conway consistently provides strong starts, often converting them into substantial contributions. His left-handedness adds a crucial element of variety to CSK’s top order, especially effective against spin-heavy bowling attacks—a common challenge in the IPL. Additionally, his extensive experience in global T20 leagues, coupled with proven success in CSK colors, ensures he remains a dependable force at the crease. Conway’s wicket-keeping ability further enhances his versatility, giving CSK added flexibility in team composition and strategy.
3. Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube’s evolution with CSK has been a story of remarkable growth and impact. Since joining the franchise, his batting has consistently improved, highlighted by a stellar progression: 289 runs at a strike rate of 156.21 in his debut season, 418 runs at 158.33 in 2023, and 396 runs at an outstanding 162.30 in 2024. His dominance against spin makes him a vital asset, particularly in the middle overs, where his aggressive intent disrupts opposition plans.
Dube’s standout performance in India’s ICC T20 World Cup 2024 triumph solidified his reputation as a dependable big-match player. His power-hitting abilities, especially in finishing roles, provide CSK with a dynamic option capable of accelerating the innings or chasing down steep targets. Over time, his improved technique against pace has enhanced his versatility, making him an all-around threat. Heading into IPL 2025, Dube’s presence fortifies CSK’s middle order, giving the team not just stability but also the confidence of having a game-changer who can shift momentum in their favor.
| Player | Role | Key Stats | Strengths | IPL 2025 Impact |
| Ruturaj Gaikwad | Top-order Anchor | 583 runs in IPL 2024, 2nd highest scorer, Orange Cap winner | Consistent, excels against pace and spin, strong under pressure | Anchors the innings, provides a platform for the middle order |
| Devon Conway | Dynamic Opener | 1,408 T20I runs in 50 matches, Avg: 38.05, SR: 127.76, 10 half-centuries | Aggressive starts, left-handed variety, versatile against spin | Complements top order with variety and consistency |
| Shivam Dube | Middle-order Finisher | 289 runs (156.21 SR) in debut IPL season, 418 runs (158.33 SR) in 2023, 396 runs (162.30 SR) in 2024 | Power-hitting, excels against spin, improved pace handling | Strengthens middle order, game-changer in finishing roles |