Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has praised Chennai Super Kings’ strategy to retain MS Dhoni as an uncapped star. The former Indian skipper was retained for INR 4 Crores ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auctions. This has helped Chennai make huge purchases during the auction.
Mohammad Kaif as quoted by Cricket.com said, “CSK have been able to make these crucial buys like Noor because of being able to retain MS Dhoni for 4 Crores. Now you see the genius of that move. A very smart move played."
The biggest purchase for Chennai was young Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad for 10 Crores. Veteran spinner R. Ashwin is back in the Chennai fold after being purchased for INR 9.75 Crores. Ashwin is back after 9 years his last game for Chennai came during the IPL 2015 season.
Ashwin shares happiness after returning to Chennai
Taking to his social media handle, Ashwin said, “They say life is a circle. From 2008 to 2015, I wore the yellow jersey and play for CSK and I am always indebted to them. Whatever I learnt at CSK, has hugely in my international career as well till today. It’s almost 10 years since I last played for CSK, 2015 was my last season with CSK. I don’t know how to express it, I was picked by Chennai again in the auction.”
The 38-year-old also added, "Words like homecoming, price, etc are there. But something nostalgic for me is the fact that CSK fought for me way back in the IPL 2011 Auctions. It was a trip down memory lane for me. It was a very special feeling, words like ‘Anbuden’ fans on social media for the last 10 years”
Yellove Bol. 💛#UngalAnbuden Ashwin 🦁#SuperAuction @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/drAzxRBt5U
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 24, 2024
“When I used to play for RR, I used to feel bad that I am playing against CSK fans. They won't shout whether am bowling or batting. Once again to play in front of the same fans, to play in front of the ever-growing fandom, I am so looking forward to it. Am glad to be back to play alongside MS Dhoni and of course to play under Ruturaj Gaikwad. Thank you,” said R. Ashwin.