IPL 2025: 5 CSK players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries

The Chennai Super Kings made a number of controversial strategy decisions during the 2025 IPL season, especially regarding team rotation. Some well-known players were benched for the majority of the competition, but the team stayed competitive.

Advertisment

Despite earning high wages, these players saw little play during the season. Their sparse appearances generated discussions about return on investment, form, and team balance.

Here are 5 CSK players who were benched for majority of the season despite huge salaries in IPL 2025:

1. Devon Conway

Advertisment

Devon Conway played in just 6 games, getting 156 runs at a mediocre average and strike rate (best score 69) despite being signed for ₹6.25 Cr. His limited opportunities were a reflection of CSK's dependence on players who were playing well and their move toward more explosive openers.

Due to his inability to develop rhythm, he averaged just about 26 runs per innings, which was insufficient to support his high wage in the face of selection decisions that were heavily influenced by competition.

2. Sam Curran

Advertisment

Purchased for ₹2.4 Cr, Sam Curran played in just 5 games, scoring 114 runs and taking just one wicket. Even though he hit 88 off 47 versus PBKS, his season was marred by inconsistent play, with other single-figure performances overshadowing that innings.

His inconsistent performances didn't warrant regular selection given CSK's full all-rounder bench, which largely kept him on the sidelines.

3. Rahul Tripathi

Despite earning a substantial sum of INR 3.40 Cr at the IPL 2025 auction, Rahul Tripathi, a middle-order batsman, was unable to contribute to CSK’s fortunes. His form deserted him during the season, and he finished with 55 runs in 5 games in the entire IPL 2025.

Tripathi was forced out when CSK experimented with Shivam Dube, Rachin Ravindra, and other players because of his poor performance and inability to take advantage of opportunities.

4. Nathan Ellis

Nathan Ellis of Australia was selected for ₹2 Cr and played in just one game, against MI, where he took 1/38. His one IPL wicket from one 2025 game wasn't enough for CSK to pick him over other pace options.

He was unable to establish rhythm or confidence due to his short playing experience, as CSK substituted more reliable bowlers for pivotal moments. Ellis was not trusted by CSK and hence couldn’t get more game time, as CSK kept its trust in Matheesha Pathirana.

5. Jamie Overton

England's Jamie Overton, another high-paid recruit who was acquired by CSK for a base fee of INR 1.50 crores, was still a member of the team but only appeared in three IPL 2025 games. He was underutilized in the face of top seamers and spin-heavy selections.

Overton conceded 83 runs in three games while bowling six overs. Despite his high price tag, Overton was benched because CSK's bench balance favored other pacers and all-rounders with track records in the IPL.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!