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It appears that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) adopted contrasting strategies at the IPL 2025 auction, and with the tournament entering its penultimate phase, RCB’s approach has proved far more effective. After 10 matches, RCB sit atop the table with 14 points, while CSK, with 4 points from 9 games, languish at the bottom. Here’s a breakdown of where CSK faltered and where RCB found success with their spending:

CSK have traditionally trusted seasoned players, but several of their experienced acquisitions for IPL 2025 have not delivered. Players like Deepak Hooda and Vijay Shankar, brought in for middle-order stability, have underperformed significantly. Their conservative approach of prioritising experience over impactful younger talent appears to have stagnated their team dynamics.

Middle-Order Woes

MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube bat together during IPL 2025 (IPL Photo)

CSK struggled to secure a reliable middle-order batsman to support Shivam Dube. Their failure to address this gap has resulted in a shaky middle order, putting immense pressure on the top order and Dube. Instead of targeting proven performers like David Miller or Sherfane Rutherford, they opted for top-order-heavy overseas signings and all-rounders who have not clicked.

Questionable All-Rounder Investments

While CSK roped in English all-rounders Sam Curran and Jamie Overton, their high price tags have not translated into impactful performances. Curran, despite past success, has shown regression, lacking the X-factor with the ball and consistency with the bat. Overton, despite a good Big Bash League season, has struggled to adapt to Indian conditions.

IPL 2025 | Auction misfire behind CSK's misery admits Stephen Fleming: 'Other teams have got better'

Phil Salt and Virat Kohli bat together during IPL 2025 (IPL Photo)

RCB invested in power hitters like Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt to bolster their batting line-up. These acquisitions aimed to provide explosiveness at the top and middle order, complementing the likes of Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar.

Strengthening the Pace Attack

RCB addressed their bowling concerns by acquiring experienced pacers Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. These additions brought much-needed skill and leadership to their pace attack.

Smart Spin Bowling Addition

Krunal Pandya has registered 13 scalps in 10 matches (AP Photo)

By securing young spinner Suyash Sharma and all rounder Krunal Pandya, RCB added depth and variety to their spin options, gaining a bowler capable of exploiting turning tracks and another one who can keep the batters quite even when the ball isnt turning with his variations.

New Leadership and Bold Decisions

RCB announced Rajat Patidar as their new skipper ahead of IPL 2025.

Under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, RCB have embraced a more proactive and aggressive approach. Their willingness to release established players and invest in specific roles at the auction indicates a clear intent to build a title-winning squad.

The contrasting fortunes of CSK and RCB suggest that RCB’s focused and bolder auction strategy has been far more successful than CSK’s traditionally cautious approach. With the league entering its final stages, RCB look like strong title contenders, while CSK face an uphill battle to restore pride.

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