Deepak Chahar's Big Switch: Leaving CSK for Mumbai Indians
Fans of the Mumbai Indians got a surprise when seasoned pacer Deepak Chahar switched camps from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to MI for a hefty ₹9.25 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. For seven straight seasons, Chahar was the face of CSK’s new-ball attack, helping them clinch titles in 2018, 2021, and, most recently, 2023. His swing, sharp movement, and reliability up front made him a fan favorite in Chennai. But with the IPL’s unpredictable auctions, nothing is permanent—even if you’ve become part of a team’s folklore.
Chahar didn’t hide his mixed feelings about the move. He admitted it will be tough not sharing the field with MS Dhoni, the man who showed immense faith in him during their years at CSK. Yet, excitement was evident as he talked about joining MI, another legendary side in the IPL. For Chahar, the change is more than just about wearing a new jersey; it’s about stepping onto the Wankhede pitch, a pacer’s paradise, every home match—and living up to a fresh set of expectations.
How the Auction Drama Unfolded
The IPL 2025 auction saw several eyebrows raised over CSK’s choice to release Chahar. Financials drove the decision—CSK couldn’t afford to retain everyone with their limited auction purse. Their focus was to hang on to Dhoni, Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shivam Dube. Chahar, with his injury-hit seasons and a high price tag, was a casualty in this numbers game.
When the auctioneer called out Chahar’s name, both CSK and MI showed serious intent. MI, coming off a season looking to revamp their pace attack, were relentless in their chase, ultimately outbidding CSK for the seamer’s signature. MI made their intentions clear: they wanted a proven wicket-taker with the experience and the knack to swing the new ball. Even though Chahar has battled fitness issues, his skill in making early breakthroughs is exactly what Mumbai’s bowling lineup needed, especially at the Wankhede, where the ball zips off the surface if you get it right.
For Chahar, the pressure—and opportunity—is huge. MI fans expect results, and he now shares a dressing room with stars like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav. He’s moving from one powerhouse franchise to another. The challenge? Translating his Chennai form to Mumbai conditions while staying fit for an entire season. Chahar has had his fair share of injuries, including a troubling back and hamstring last year, but MI’s support staff are known for rehabilitating fast bowlers and keeping them in top form.
While Chahar himself shared emotional words for his time with CSK, his wife’s heartfelt social media post caught attention too. She looked back on how CSK shaped their family’s life and highlighted the bond formed with the players, the fans, and Chennai as a city.
Chahar’s record with CSK spans 76 matches, 3 IPL titles, and dozens of magical new-ball spells. His journey now takes a sharp turn west—to Mumbai, the city of cricketing dreams. The stage is set for a new chapter, and cricket fans everywhere will watch to see if he brings his CSK magic to the blue and gold of MI.
