The IPL 2025 auction has reshaped team rosters in ways that could significantly alter the balance of power within the league. For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), known for their consistency and strategic team-building, the loss of two key players to Mumbai Indians (MI) could be a major setback. Mitchell Santner and Deepak Chahar, both integral to CSK’s success in recent years, have now donned the blue and gold of MI, leaving fans and the team’s management to ponder the impact of their absence.
Mitchell Santner – Mumbai Indians
Mitchell Santner, the New Zealand all-rounder, has been a reliable asset for Chennai Super Kings, particularly with his left-arm spin bowling. His economy rate in crucial phases of the game often helped Chennai Super Kings control the middle overs, making him a key player in managing the run rate and taking wickets when the ball wasn’t turning much. Santner’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death, combined with his handy contributions with the bat lower down the order, made him more than just a spinner; he was a match situation solver.
His move to MI means Chennai Super Kings loses a bowler who could adapt to different conditions and match-ups. Santner’s departure will force Chennai Super Kings to either rely more heavily on their existing spinners or scout for a similar all-round talent who can not only bowl but also chip in with the bat, especially in tight situations. His experience in the IPL and his understanding of the Chepauk pitch will be particularly missed, as these aspects can’t be quickly replaced.
Deepak Chahar – Mumbai Indians
Deepak Chahar has been more than just a swing bowler for CSK; he’s been their powerplay specialist. His ability to move the ball both ways in the initial overs has provided CSK with early breakthroughs time and again. Chahar’s record in the powerplay is unmatched, often setting the tone for the innings and putting the opposition on the back foot. His development into a handy lower-order batsman has also added depth to CSK’s batting, making his absence a double blow.
Chahar’s transition to MI means CSK now faces the challenge of finding a new opening bowler who can emulate or even come close to his impact. The market for such specialized skills is competitive, and replacing someone like Chahar, who has been part of CSK’s fabric for years, might not be straightforward. His understanding of the team’s culture, the captaincy of MS Dhoni, and the nuances of playing at Chepauk will be difficult to replicate.
The departure of Mitchell Santner and Deepak Chahar to Mumbai Indians for IPL 2025 could be felt deeply by Chennai Super Kings. Both players have not only contributed with their skills but have also been part of the team’s tactical approach and success story. CSK now faces the task of reconfiguring their strategies, possibly leaning more on domestic talents or scouting for international players who can fill these unique roles. As the new season approaches, how CSK adapts to this change will be one of the most watched narratives of IPL 2025.
