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Indian Premier League - IPL
November 22, 2024 - 8:17 pm

4 Teams Keen To Target Maheesh Theekshana At The IPL 2025 Auction

With the IPL 2025 mega auction right around the corner, franchises are keenly evaluating players who can bolster their squads. Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana has emerged as a notable prospect due to his consistent performances in T20 cricket. 

Known for his ability to restrict scoring and take crucial wickets, Theekshana’s skills make him a valuable asset for teams aiming to strengthen their spin department.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025 Auction: Purse Remaining and RTM Cards Left for All 10 Teams

Maheesh Theekshana has established himself as a reliable off-spinner in the T20 format. His tenure with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in recent IPL seasons showcased his capability to perform under pressure. In 27 IPL matches, he has taken 25 wickets at an average of 31.88, with an economy rate of 7.66 and best figures of 4/33. His ability to maintain a tight line and length makes him effective in containing runs and building pressure on the opposition.

Several teams could benefit from Theekshana’s expertise, particularly those with spin-friendly home conditions or a need to enhance their spin attack. 

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK has a history of valuing quality spinners, especially given the spin-friendly conditions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Theekshana’s previous stint with CSK was marked by success, making him a familiar and trusted option for the franchise. 

The team might consider using the Right to Match (RTM) card to retain him, potentially prioritizing him over other players like Devon Conway. His ability to control the middle overs and provide breakthroughs aligns with CSK’s strategic approach. Retaining Theekshana would ensure continuity in their spin department and strengthen their bowling lineup.

They might also choose to pick him up regularly from the auction table without using the RTM card. It is likely that Theekshana would also come within reasonable budget for MS Dhoni and Co.

2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB’s home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, is known for its high-scoring matches, making the role of spinners crucial in restricting the opposition. 

Theekshana’s skill in maintaining a low economy rate and his knack for taking wickets in the middle overs make him an ideal candidate for RCB. His inclusion would add depth to their spin attack, providing the team with a reliable option to control the flow of runs and apply pressure during critical phases of the game.

RCB have struggled to use their spinners in the right way since Yuzvendra Chahal’s departure and the addition of a versatile spinner like Theekshana could fix a few problems for them.

3. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians have traditionally relied on a strong pace attack, but the Wankhede Stadium’s conditions also offer assistance to spinners, especially in the middle overs. 

Theekshana’s ability to bowl economically and his experience in handling pressure situations make him a valuable addition to MI’s bowling arsenal. His presence would add variety to their attack, complementing their pace bowlers and enhancing the team’s overall bowling strategy on their home ground in particular.

4. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

The Ekana Stadium in Lucknow is known for its slow pitch, which offers significant assistance to spinners. LSG would benefit from Theekshana’s expertise in such conditions, as his off-spin can exploit the pitch’s characteristics to trouble batsmen. 

His ability to bowl tight spells and take crucial wickets would be instrumental in LSG’s strategy to dominate on their home ground. Adding Maheesh Theekshana to their lineup would strengthen their spin department and provide the team with a potent weapon in their bowling attack.

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Maheesh Theekshana’s consistent performances and ability to adapt to various conditions make him a different kind of spinner to the ones available domestically. Teams like CSK, RCB, MI, and LSG are well-positioned to target Theekshana in the IPL 2025 mega auction.