The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been dealt a significant blow with the injury to their captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to an elbow fracture.
As CSK looks to bolster their batting lineup, they have the opportunity to sign a replacement player. Here are three potential players CSK could target to fill the void left by Gaikwad:
1. Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow, the English wicketkeeper-batsman, is a prime candidate to replace Gaikwad. Despite going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, Bairstow has a proven track record in the IPL, having played for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings.
He is known for his explosive batting and ability to provide strong starts at the top of the order. Bairstow also has a connection with CSK’s sister franchise, Joburg Super Kings, where he performed well in the SA20 league, scoring 232 runs at an average of 38.66 and a strike rate of 134.10.
Bairstow’s versatility allows him to bat at various positions, making him an attractive option for CSK. He could potentially form a strong opening pair with Rachin Ravindra or Devon Conway, utilizing a right-hand-left-hand combination that has been successful for CSK in the past.
2. Ayush Mhatre
Ayush Mhatre, a 17-year-old Mumbai batter, is another potential replacement for Gaikwad. Although he went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, Mhatre has been making waves in domestic cricket.
He recently broke Yashasvi Jaiswal’s record to become the youngest player to score 150 in a List A match, achieving this feat at just 17 years and 191 days old.
Mhatre’s inclusion could provide CSK with a fresh and dynamic batting option. While he might not be an immediate starter, he could serve as a backup player, offering depth to the squad.
His impressive performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy suggest he has the potential to make an impact at the IPL level.
3. Evin Lewis
Evin Lewis, known for his aggressive batting style, is another player CSK could consider signing. Lewis has been a consistent performer in T20 leagues around the world, showcasing his ability to hit big sixes and provide explosive starts. Given CSK’s current struggles with power-hitting, Lewis could be an ideal signing to bolster their batting lineup.
Lewis’s experience in various T20 leagues, including the IPL, makes him a viable option for CSK. His ability to hit boundaries and sixes could be crucial in enhancing CSK’s batting firepower, especially in the middle overs where they have struggled to accelerate.
