IPL 2025: Rachin Ravindra shot to prominence for his impeccable batting in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 as he finished the tournament as New Zealand's leading run-scorer with 578 runs in 10 games at an average of 64.22 including 3 centuries and 2 fifties.

He drew plaudits for his impeccable performances and also received interest from the IPL teams at the last year's auction. Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings showed interest to sign him but it was CSK that eventually outbid the other two teams and roped the youngster in for a bargain price of INR 1.8 crore.

While the deal was considered an 'absolute steal', Ravindra's journey with CSK in IPL 2024 was not as successful as both the player and the franchise would have hoped. The New Zealand international struggled to make a significant impact during the season, mustering just 222 runs in 10 games at an average of 22.2.

It is highly likely that Ravindra may not represent CSK again after this underwhelming performance. Besides that, CSK's key opener Devon Conway who missed IPL 2024 due to a thumb injury, is expected to make a comeback in the next season. His absence was a terrible blow for CSK, as Conway had been a consistent performer for the team over the past two seasons.

Ravindra's fellow teammate scored 924 runs in 23 matches, including nine fifties. Conway's impressive track record makes it almost certain that he will be retained by CSK. With Conway’s return, the opening spot alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is all but secured.

As a result, this leaves little room for Rachin Ravindra. His inability to capitalise on the opportunity during IPL 2024 further shrinked his chances of being retained. Despite being given the substantial role of opening the innings, the left-hander scored just one fifty in 10 games.

In a league as competitive as the IPL, where teams have a wealth of talent to pick from, such a performance makes it tough for a player to secure their spot in the squad. Moreover, CSK failed to qualify for the playoffs in IPL 2024 as they finished fifth on the league stage points table.

CSK will look to bolster their squad going forward in the next season. The five-time IPL champions are more likely to release 24-year-old and with Conway’s proven track record and the availability of other potential overseas options, CSK are likely to stick to players who can deliver the goods consistently.

On the contrary, Ravindra, knowing that he would likely warm the bench upon Devon Conway’s arrival, might as well prefer to explore other chances where he can get more game time.