The IPL 2025 auction has reshaped the landscape of cricket with some notable player movements, and among them, the release of Mitchell Santner and Maheesh Theekshana by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has caught the eye of fans and analysts alike. Both players, known for their unique skills and performances, have found new homes with Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Mitchell Santner
Mitchell Santner, a New Zealand all-rounder, has been a silent force in cricket with his left-arm orthodox spin and lower-order batting capabilities. After being released by Chennai Super Kings, Santner was snapped up by Mumbai Indians for a base price of 2 Crore, a team known for nurturing all-round talent. His move to Mumbai adds depth to their bowling attack and provides a crucial backup for their spin department, especially in the absence of key players or on spin-friendly pitches.
Santner’s Indian Premier League journey has been one of consistency rather than flamboyance; yet, his economy rate and ability to bowl at critical junctures of the game make him a strategic asset. In his previous stints, he has shown the knack for reading the game’s pulse, often bowling tight overs that squeeze the run rate, making him invaluable in the middle overs. His batting, while not explosive, offers stability and the occasional surprise with his left-handedness, adding variety to the batting lineup.
Maheesh Theekshana
Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana, celebrated for his mysterious off-spin and variations like the carrom ball, was another significant release from Chennai Super Kings. Bought by Rajasthan Royals for 4.40 Crore, Theekshana is set to bring his unique skills to a team that has historically invested in spinners. His ability to deceive batsmen with pace and turn has made him a talking point in international cricket, and this skill set is expected to be a game-changer in IPL 2025.
Theekshana’s performance in the Indian Premier League has been a blend of control and wicket-taking. His economy rate, often under scrutiny due to his unconventional action, has proven to be beneficial in the T20 format where each ball counts. His tenure at Chennai Super Kings showed glimpses of his potential, with several match-defining performances where he managed to disrupt the batting side’s rhythm. His inclusion in Rajasthan Royals could mean a strategic advantage especially when playing on the turning tracks of Jaipur or against teams with a long tail.
Impact on New Teams
For Mumbai Indians, Santner’s arrival means a bolstered middle order and a reliable spin option. His experience in international cricket, particularly in conditions similar to those in India, could help Mumbai craft their game plan better, especially in defending totals or during the crucial middle overs. His synergy with established players like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav could be key in turning matches in Mumbai’s favor.
On the other hand, Maheesh Theekshana’s addition to Rajasthan Royals is poised to enhance their already potent spin attack. Combining with the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Theekshana could form a formidable duo, capable of dictating terms on pitches that assist spin. His ability to bowl in different phases of the game, from powerplay to death overs, adds a tactical layer to Royals’ strategy, potentially making them a tough nut to crack in IPL 2025.
Anticipation
The fan bases of both Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals are buzzing with anticipation. Mumbai fans are eager to see how Santner will adapt to the high-pressure environment of the Indian Premier League, especially under the guidance of a tactician like Rohit Sharma. Meanwhile, Royals’ supporters are excited about the prospect of watching Theekshana’s enigmatic bowling alongside their seasoned spinners, possibly leading to a season filled with thrilling matches and strategic plays.
As IPL 2025 approaches, both Mitchell Santner and Maheesh Theekshana stand out as players who could significantly influence their new teams’ fortunes. Their release from CSK and subsequent acquisition by Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals respectively, not only reshapes the dynamics of these franchises but also adds layers of intrigue and excitement for what could be one of the most competitive IPL seasons. With their skills, experience, and adaptability, they are indeed players who can set the IPL on fire, making every game they play in a must-watch event.
