The thrilling IPL 2025 season was the one to forget for the five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as they became the first team to be eliminated from the playoff race. With just three wins in their first 12 games, CSK’s campaign collapsed swiftly due to inaccurate tactical decisions, underwhelming performances by the veterans, and poor leadership. However, the Yellow Army found a few gems who could shape the future of the franchise and carry forward its successful legacy.
Youngsters like Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis were given chances in the second half of the season, and both delivered promising performances. Moreover, Shaikh Rasheed and Urvil Patel also hinted at a fresh core being built for the coming seasons. While the results were disappointing, CSK’s decision to test their bench strength could prove beneficial in the long run.
Here are three gems that were unearthed by CSK in IPL 2025:
3. Noor Ahmad
Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad has been the lone bright spot for CSK this season. The 22-year-old left-arm wrist spinner, who was underutilised by the Gujarat Titans, has excelled in the yellow jersey, becoming an important player for CSK. Noor bagged 20 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 17.25 and an economy rate of just over 8. His match-winning four-wicket haul against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens ended the side’s losing streak.
The youngster stepped up whenever the team required him, whether in the powerplay or at the death. He consistently provided breakthroughs and outshone veterans like Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Acquired for INR 10 Crore in the mega-auction, the five-time champions would surely be satisfied with this buy. With the team going through a transition period, Noor could be one of the top names that the franchise looks to retain and bring back in the coming years.
2. Dewald Brevis
South Africa’s Dewald Brevis, who is called ‘Baby AB’ for his resemblance to AB de Villiers, finally had a decent showing in the IPL for CSK after two disappointing seasons with the Mumbai Indians. After going unsold in the auction, the 21-year-old batter was roped in mid-season by Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for Gurjapneet Singh. Brevis, who never quite delivered for MI in 2022 and 2024, emerged as a different player in the CSK setup.
Slotted into the playing XI, he made an instant impact with scores of 42, 32, and a match-winning 52 off just 25 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders. His innings not only saw CSK get over the line, but his 30-run over shifted the momentum from KKR to the Chennai team. Earlier this year, the Johannesburg-born cricketer impressed in SA20, helping MI Cape Town lift the title and finishing with 291 runs in 10 innings. Having played just two games for South Africa, this IPL could work wonders for him in franchise cricket and at the international level.
Top 3 Indian cricketers who are serving in Indian Army
1. Ayush Mhatre
The 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre has emerged as one of Chennai Super Kings’ biggest finds this year. Signed as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Mumbai-born player grabbed the opportunity with both hands. On debut at his home ground, Wankhede Stadium, Mhatre began brilliantly with 32 off 15 balls and was instrumental in giving his side a solid start.
However, his knock of 94 against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru grabbed significant attention. Chasing 214, Mhatre nearly pulled off an incredible feat alongside partner Ravindra Jadeja. In five games, he has hammered 163 runs at a strike rate of 181.11. In List A, he has smashed 458 runs in seven matches, including a record-breaking 181 against Nagaland. Mhatre also had stellar performances in the Irani Cup and the Under-19 Asia Cup. CSK has a history of nurturing young talent, and Mhatre could be the next player the Chennai team invests heavily in.
