The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket tournament; it’s a spectacle where dreams are made or broken within the span of a few months. For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), known for their strategic team selections and loyalty to performers, the IPL 2025 squad includes a mix of seasoned campaigners and promising talents. However, not everyone makes it to the playing XI, and this year, two players might find themselves on the sidelines more often than not: Shaik Rasheed and Anshul Kamboj.
Shaik Rasheed –
Shaik Rasheed, with his impressive T20 stats, might seem like a sure bet for any team. His record includes a century, a strike rate over 126, and a knack for crucial cameos. However, CSK’s squad for IPL 2025 is stacked with international stars and proven domestic talents. The likely replacement for Rasheed could be Rachin Ravindra, whose versatility with both bat and ball, combined with his international experience, might edge out Rasheed. Ravindra’s ability to adapt to various match situations, especially in the middle order or as a finisher, could be seen as more valuable in CSK’s strategic gameplay, leaving Rasheed as a potential benchwarmer.
Anshul Kamboj –
Anshul Kamboj’s case is even more intriguing. His batting stats are modest, with an average of 17.33 and a highest score of just 17 in T20s. His bowling, while economical, hasn’t been match-winning enough to secure a regular spot. In a team like CSK, where every player needs to justify their place with either the bat, ball, or both, Kamboj’s contributions might not stack up against the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali, or even young talents like Akash Singh or Maheesh Theekshana, who offer more with the ball and can chip in with the bat. Kamboj’s role might be limited to injury cover or very specific match situations, making his appearances in IPL 2025 rare.
CSK’s approach has always been about backing players who can deliver under pressure, often giving them multiple chances to prove their worth. However, the IPL’s format demands immediate impact, and with a limited number of matches, every selection is scrutinized. Rasheed and Kamboj, while talented, might find themselves overshadowed by players who offer more versatility or have a proven track record in high-pressure games. This isn’t just about skill but also about fitting into the team’s strategy, which often revolves around experienced campaigners and match-winners.
For Rasheed and Kamboj, IPL 2025 could be a year of learning and waiting. While not playing might be disheartening, the environment at CSK, under the mentorship of figures like MS Dhoni, could be invaluable for their development. The IPL is also about showcasing talent when given the opportunity, and both players might get their moments, albeit brief, to shine. For fans and analysts, it’s a reminder of the depth in modern cricket squads, where even talented players might not see the field due to the sheer quality of competition within the team.
As IPL 2025 unfolds, the journey of Shaik Rasheed and Anshul Kamboj with CSK might not be one of regular match appearances but of growth, learning, and perhaps, waiting for their moment. In the high-stakes world of the IPL, where every match counts, their stories serve as a testament to the competitive nature of the league and the strategic depth of teams like CSK. While they might not play, their presence in the squad speaks volumes about the talent pool in Indian cricket, ready to step up when called upon.
