CSK sidelines top Vijay Hazare wicket-taker despite historic IPL 2025 slump

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) experienced an unprecedented low in IPL 2025, finishing 10th for the first time in their history.

Despite this historic slump, CSK's decision to sideline their top Vijay Hazare Trophy wicket-taker surprised many fans and analysts alike. The player, acquired for INR 30 lakh at the mega auction, did not feature in any of the 14 league phase games.

This move was particularly unexpected given the player's outstanding performance in the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he took 18 wickets in 10 games at an impressive average of 4.98, ranking as the joint-third-highest wicket-taker.

"This came as a shock to many due to the stellar run Gopal had enjoyed in the 2024-25 edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy," reports noted.

CSK's poor IPL showing contrasts sharply with the player's domestic success, raising questions about team strategy and selection choices during the season.

"CSK finished 10th for the first time in IPL history," marking a significant downturn for the franchise.

The sidelining of a proven wicket-taker who had demonstrated consistent form in domestic cricket highlights the challenges CSK faced in balancing squad composition and performance during IPL 2025.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finished last in IPL 2025, marking their worst performance ever. Despite his stellar Vijay Hazare Trophy showing with 18 wickets in 10 games, the top wicket-taker was sidelined throughout the IPL season, not playing a single match in the 14 league games.