The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face a potential setback ahead of IPL 2025 as New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra sustained a facial injury during an ODI against Pakistan.
While the severity of the injury and the recovery timeline remain uncertain, it has prompted CSK to consider potential replacements should Ravindra be unavailable for the upcoming season.
Ravindra, who was expected to play a key role for CSK in IPL 2025, brings a unique blend of left-handed batting prowess and useful spin bowling.
His absence would undoubtedly require CSK to reshuffle their squad and find a player capable of filling his shoes. Here are three potential replacements that CSK could consider:
1. Daryl Mitchell
Daryl Mitchell, the New Zealand all-rounder, is a strong contender to rejoin the CSK squad as a replacement for Rachin Ravindra.
Mitchell is no stranger to the CSK setup, having been a part of the team in IPL 2024. CSK had invested heavily in Mitchell, acquiring him for a substantial sum of INR 14 crore at the auction.
In his 13 matches for CSK in IPL 2024, Mitchell showcased his versatility and ability to contribute in different situations. He scored 318 runs, including two valuable half-centuries, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the conditions and provide stability to the middle order.
2. Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza, the Zimbabwean all-rounder, is another viable option for CSK as a replacement for Rachin Ravindra. Raza brings with him prior IPL experience, having played for the Punjab Kings in IPL 2023.
In his IPL career, Raza has played nine innings, scoring 182 runs at a decent strike rate of 133.82. He has also chipped in with three wickets in nine innings, showcasing his ability to contribute with the ball as well.
Raza is known for his consistency in T20 cricket, both with the bat and ball. His ability to bowl useful off-spin and his knack for scoring crucial runs in the middle order make him a valuable addition to any T20 squad.
3. Kyle Mayers
Kyle Mayers, the West Indies all-rounder, presents a different dimension to CSK’s potential replacements for Rachin Ravindra.
Mayers is primarily known for his explosive batting at the top of the order, but he is also a useful medium-pace bowler.
In the recently concluded BPL 2024-25, Mayers continued his impressive form, scoring 209 runs in six innings with a staggering strike rate of 177.12.
He also contributed with five wickets in seven innings, further highlighting his all-round capabilities.
