Last Updated on 2 months by Charbel Coorey

One win and one loss to start a long IPL season is not cause for panic. However, Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) 50-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) exposed some of their shortcomings. While they are a good side on paper, CSK’s middle order came for questioning ahead of the season, with concerns around whether they have enough power. Chasing 197 against RCB, they were never in the hunt.

Of course, the loss of powerplay wickets hurt dearly. A quick start from the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad would have served them well. However, CSK’s playing XII has some gaps. Here is an opportunity for CSK to think proactively to kickstart their campaign and ensure they are not left with too much to do in the second half of the season.

Key changes CSK should make to their playing XII to kickstart their IPL 2025 campaign

In this article, we will look at three changes CSK should make that can give them an edge.

1. Jamie Overton for Sam Curran

Sam Curran has made a slow start to IPL 2025. While he has performed well in the past, Curran’s all-round game currently lacks the impact required to elevate CSK to another level in the crunch overs.

Curran has bowled four wicketless overs for 47 runs. Worse, the all-rounder has scored 12 runs off 22 balls across CSK’s first two games in the crucial middle order where impact is the name of the game.

If CSK do replace Curran, they have the option of bringing Devon Conway to the top of the order. While that is a feasible option to improve the batting lineup, it is the middle order that requires more attention.

Jamie Overton could provide the impact CSK need. In all T20s since the start of 2022, Overton has struck 885 runs at a strike rate of 156.1, compared to Curran’s 132.1. He has also struck every 16.1 deliveries with the ball in this period, offering CSK more a wicket-taking threat despite the fact he could go for runs as well.

2. Shaik Rasheed for Deepak Hooda

It just isn’t happening for Deepak Hooda. Over the past two seasons, Hooda is averaging just 11.2 with the bat with a strike rate of 112.9.

CSK have a choice here. They can either persist with the struggling Hooda or give the promising Shaik Rasheed a chance. Rasheed has been part of the CSK system since 2023, and although he has just 17 T20s of experience, his inclusion can be a breath of fresh air.

Also, CSK would be better served bringing Rasheed in now to enable him to settle into the team rather than later in the season where the pressure would be higher.

3. Ruturaj Gaikwad to opener, Rahul Tripathi to 3

Rahul Tripathi is also a player on notice following a poor start to IPL 2025. Selected as opener, Tripathi has managed just 2 (3) and 5 (3) so far.

With some middle order concerns, CSK need the best start possible. Ruturaj Gaikwad has done his best work in the IPL as opener, hitting 2,289 runs at an average of 44.02 and strike rate of 136.90.

The Gaikwad-Rachin Ravindra opening partnership can be a key strength for CSK. They were excellent in their 67-run stand in 6.1 overs against Mumbai Indians in their season opener. Such a start can hold them in good stead going forward.

So, there are three changes I think CSK should make in the IPL 2025 season. What do you think? Let us know in the comments or by tweeting @cric_blog.