Scouting team’s suggestions overlooked in CSK’s flawed auction strategy: Report

Chennai Super Kings’ exit from the group stage of IPL 2025 has taken many by surprise. The five-time champions have endured a forgettable campaign, marked by a series of uncharacteristic lows.

From suffering their first home defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru since 2008 to now enduring a five-match winless streak at the Chepauk, the fortress has crumbled. Before this season, CSK had never lost more than two consecutive home matches.

CSK’s failure to qualify for the playoffs in consecutive seasons, a first in the franchise`s storied history, underscores a deeper malaise.

Much of this season’s downfall appears rooted in questionable decision-making during the auction. As per a report by The Indian Express, CSK’s leadership overlooked critical recommendations from their scouting department, choosing instead to adhere to their long-standing philosophy of backing seasoned campaigners.

A glaring example is their acquisition of veteran all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin for Rs 9.75 crore, despite his recent underwhelming IPL performances. The report further highlights that CSK refused to raise the paddle for some of the hottest T20 prospects in the world, including rising star Priyansh Arya, continuing a worrying trend of neglecting emerging talent.

“Behind the scenes at CSK, there are also questions as to how some of the young talents put forward by their talent scouts were not even considered at the auction table. At a time franchises are tapping on domestic T20 leagues for unknown talents, Chennai still appear reluctant to take the route. Priyansh Arya is the latest young talent that the franchise has missed out after he was recommended by their scouting team. In the past, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sai Sudharsan have all gone through their grasp. And beyond Dhoni, there isn’t a frontline wicketkeeper and at 43 still remains their go-to captain in moments of crisis,” the report noted.

Now plying his trade for Punjab Kings, Arya is having an impressive debut season. In nine matches so far, he has scored 323 runs at an average of 35.89, including a standout performance against CSK.

This article first appeared on Mid Day