Why Devon Conway Is Not Playing Today’s IPL 2025 Match Against MI

In a surprising move for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans, New Zealand opener Devon Conway has been left out of the playing XI in the high-octane IPL 2025 opener against Mumbai Indians at the Chepauk Stadium. The decision to exclude the experienced Kiwi batter raised several eyebrows, considering his key contributions to CSK’s past successes, particularly in the 2023 season where he scored 672 runs in 15 innings, playing a vital role in their championship win.

Rachin Ravindra Preferred Over Conway

The primary reason behind Conway’s absence lies in the team combination strategy. CSK have chosen to go with another left-handed Kiwi batter, Rachin Ravindra, who impressed last season with his aggressive approach at the top. Rachin had played 10 matches for CSK in IPL 2024, scoring 222 runs at an explosive strike rate of 160. His ability to provide quick starts alongside skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has prompted the CSK think tank to back him over Conway for the opener.

Rachin’s adaptability in Indian conditions and his part-time off-spin option give CSK more flexibility in balancing both batting depth and bowling variety, especially when facing Mumbai Indians’ strong bowling attack.

Overseas Slot Limitation

Another major factor influencing Conway’s omission is the restriction of only four overseas players in the playing XI. CSK opted to fill those slots with:

Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Nathan Ellis (Australia)
Sam Curran (England)
Noor Ahmad (Afghanistan)

This combination ensures they have a balanced mix of top-order aggression, death bowling options, all-round capabilities, and a specialist spinner, which they deemed necessary for their clash against MI.

Team Management’s Call

Sources close to the CSK camp indicate that the decision was purely tactical and not due to injury or fitness concerns. Conway is fit and available for selection, but the management wanted to test a more aggressive batting approach combined with flexible bowling options in their season opener.

Conway Likely To Feature In Upcoming Matches

Despite missing out today, Conway remains an integral part of CSK’s plans for IPL 2025. His consistency and experience make him a strong contender to return to the XI as the season progresses, depending on match conditions, opposition strengths, and player form

As CSK begin their IPL 2025 campaign, all eyes will be on how their revamped top order performs and whether their overseas choices pay off.

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