In a surprising revelation, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter Anuj Rawat has expressed his interest in playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) if he is not retained by RCB for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Known for his explosive batting and versatility, Rawat has been a key player for RCB, but with the limited retention slots ahead of the mega auction, he may find himself back in the auction pool.
Rawat’s Wish to Play Under MS Dhoni
During a conversation with CricketNext, the left-handed batter shared his admiration for CSK captain MS Dhoni, expressing his desire to play under the legendary leader if the opportunity arises.
“Whoever has played for RCB once wants to play for them forever. But if not RCB, then I want to play for CSK because MS Dhoni is there. He has a different personality, and all the players talk about him,” said Rawat.
Rawat’s comments highlight the significant influence Dhoni has on players across franchises, with many considering him one of the most respected and impactful figures in world cricket. Rawat’s admiration for Dhoni could make him a sought-after player in the IPL 2025 mega auction, especially for teams like CSK, who might be on the lookout for talented young batters.
Impressive Performances for RCB and DPL 2024
Rawat had an underwhelming IPL 2022 season but bounced back strongly, contributing crucial innings for RCB in subsequent seasons. One of his standout performances came in a 48-run knock against CSK, along with a quickfire 14-ball 25* against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite showing glimpses of his potential, Rawat’s future with RCB remains uncertain due to the team’s need to streamline its squad.
Rawat also enjoyed a successful campaign in the recently concluded Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2024. He scored 356 runs in ten innings at an exceptional strike rate of 156.83, playing a pivotal role in East Delhi Riders’ victorious season. His highlight performance came in the form of a brilliant 121* off 66 balls, which helped secure a win against Purani Dilli-6, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks.
Potential Move to CSK and 2025 Mega Auction
With the IPL 2025 mega auction approaching, Rawat’s performances in domestic cricket and his T20 exploits will likely attract interest from several franchises. His desire to play for CSK adds an intriguing dimension to his potential transfer, especially considering Dhoni’s reputation for nurturing young talent.
Rawat’s addition to the CSK squad could bolster their batting depth, providing the team with a hard-hitting middle-order option. However, with fierce competition expected at the auction, it remains to be seen which team secures his services for IPL 2025.
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As IPL 2025 approaches, Rawat’s aspirations and impressive form make him one of the players to watch out for, and his future in the tournament will undoubtedly be a hot topic during the auction.
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