The IPL 2025 season promises to be a test of adaptability for many players, especially for those who have switched teams in the auction. Among them, Shreyas Gopal and Romario Shepherd, both former Mumbai Indians (MI) players, face significant hurdles in securing a place in the playing XI at their new franchises, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) respectively.
Shreyas Gopal
Shreyas Gopal, known for his leg-spin, was picked up by CSK for a modest sum of 30 lakhs. However, his journey to the pitch might be one of the toughest in Indian Premier League 2025. CSK boasts an enviable spin department, with stalwarts like R Ashwin, whose experience and variations make him almost indispensable, and Ravindra Jadeja, who not only bowls but also stabilizes the middle order with his batting. To add to the competition, CSK has secured the services of Noor Ahmad, a young Afghan spinner with a bright future, offering a different dimension to their spin attack.
Gopal’s challenge isn’t just about his bowling; it’s about fitting into a team where the spin slots are already well-covered. His performances, while notable, have not been consistent enough in the IPL to warrant an automatic inclusion over the existing options. Unless there’s an injury, a strategic shift to playing three spinners in certain conditions, or a dip in form from the current choices, Gopal might find IPL 2025 more about patience than playing.
Romario Shepherd
Romario Shepherd, after his stint with MI, has moved to RCB, where he faces a different kind of competition. Shepherd, known for his hard-hitting capabilities and useful bowling spells, finds himself in a lineup where both aspects of his game are well-represented. RCB has players like Liam Livingstone, a versatile all-rounder who can turn matches with both bat and ball, and Tim David, whose explosive batting has been pivotal in many games. Additionally, Rajat Patidar has shown he can anchor or accelerate as needed, while Krunal Pandya brings experience and left-arm spin, adding to the depth in both departments.
For Shepherd to get a game, he would need to outperform expectations in practice or for RCB to adopt a strategy that uniquely leverages his skills. However, with such a strong lineup, his role might be limited to being a backup unless RCB decides to experiment with team combinations or faces injuries to key players.
The Nature of IPL Squads
IPL teams often carry players who might not make the playing XI due to the strategic depth required for a long tournament. Both Gopal and Shepherd bring skills that could be crucial in specific scenarios, but the reality of IPL 2025 is that competition for spots is fiercer than ever. Teams are looking at balance, form, and sometimes even the opposition’s lineup when picking their XI, which doesn’t always favor all-round capabilities over specialization.
Looking Ahead
For Shreyas Gopal and Romario Shepherd, the upcoming season could be one of learning, waiting, and perhaps seizing any chance they get. IPL 2025 is not just about playing; it’s about contributing to the team’s strategy off the field, staying ready for any opportunity, and maintaining morale among the squad. Both players have shown in the past they can make an impact; the key for them will be to stay prepared and positive, knowing that their moment might come when least expected.
In the dynamic world of IPL 2025, where every match could alter the fortunes of a team, players like Shreyas Gopal and Romario Shepherd are reminders of the depth and talent on the bench. Their journey from MI to their new teams is a narrative of adaptation, resilience, and the continuous quest for relevance in one of the world’s most competitive cricket leagues. While they might not play a single match, their presence in the squad could be the difference in strategy, morale, or even in the final moments of a crunch game.
