5 Players CSK Could Risk Losing If There Is A Mega-Auction In 2021

As per the timeline of IPL, a mega-auction needs to happen in 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 crisis and less time available, many felt that this might not be possible. That said, in recent days, BCCI has hinted that a mega-auction could proceed as per plan.

CSK would be happy if a mega-auction takes place. The management has to reshuffle the squad, and a full auction would be the best chance to do that. However, like every other team, CSK would stand the risk of losing certain players if a mega-auction happens. Apart from the players who are retained, due to the auction dynamics, it might not be possible that you could get a player that you target in the auction room. Hence, if such a scenario occurs, here are five players CSK might lose before next season.

1. Dwayne Bravo

CSK would not retain Bravo if there is a mega-auction. The West Indian's injury-record and inconsistencies on the ground may not warrant a big investment. However, he would be in demand if he goes into the auctions. For teams like Kings XI Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad, a pace-bowling all-rounder could be helpful, and they could target the player. If that happens, Bravo's price could skyrocket. With other spots also needing improvement, CSK might not afford to bid heavily for him. Thus, they could lose him.

2. Deepak Chahar

Deepak Chahar is one of the best power play bowlers in India. That said, he is not worth a retainment for CSK. That means, he could go into the auctions. If that happens, there could be a bidding war for the Rajasthan cricketer. Teams like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders need a domestic pacer, and Deepak Chahar could look like a sensible option. Although CSK themselves could get into the bidding, it would surely leave them at the mercy of the auction-scenario at that moment.

3. Mitchell Santner

Although they got him a small amount a couple of years ago, Santner's price could go up in the upcoming auctions. He is one of the best T20 all-rounders at the moment, and while playing for CSK, he showed glimpses of the same. Also, having a similar player like Ravindra Jadeja, whom they would retain, going the extra mile for the Kiwi might not happen. Hence, they could stand losing him if a mega-auction happens next year.

4. Suresh Raina

CSK might not retain Suresh Raina as it would ask for a big investment to keep a player who has retired from the game. However, they would target him at the auctions. Pulling it off, though, could be difficult. It could become even harder if a new team gets added. Raina is a captaincy material, and any new squad would target him. Teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kings XI Punjab could also be in the fray for the veteran. The situation would then get very uncomfortable for CSK to proceed.

5. Ambati Rayudu

Rayudu's situation is almost the same as that of Raina's. In fact, if he does well in the domestic games leading up to the auctions, Rayudu's price could go higher. The new franchise, and other squads like SRH, and RCB could target him. SRH could go hard considering he is one of their homegrown cricketers. The player's profile would also fit their requirement. This means CSK will find it difficult to buy him back. Although the RTM option is available, it is better if the franchise uses it for the likes of Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur.