Key Highlights:
The 2025 IPL season has taken an unexpected turn for Chennai Super Kings. Just before a crucial match against Kolkata Knight Riders, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament with an elbow injury. As the team scrambles to rebuild its playing XI, all eyes are on one name — Vansh Bedi.
The 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman, known for his fearless hitting and stormy performances in the Delhi Premier League 2024, is being seen as a potential replacement in the CSK top order.
Who is Vansh Bedi?
Vansh Bedi burst into the limelight during the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2024, playing for Old Delhi 6. His swashbuckling form, including a 96-run knock while chasing 242, made headlines. Chennai Super Kings secured his services for Rs 55 lakh, banking on his ability to shift momentum in the middle overs — an area where CSK has struggled this season.
- Age: 22
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
- Signed by CSK: Rs 55 lakh
- Known for: Strike rate of 185, fearless middle-overs hitting
Vansh Bedi’s Performance in DPL 2024
In nine innings in the DPL, Vansh Bedi accumulated:
- 221 runs
- Strike Rate: 185
- Key Innings:
- 47 off 19 balls
- 30 off 18 balls vs West Delhi Lions
- 96 off 41 balls vs East Delhi Riders
These numbers place him in elite company. More importantly, CSK desperately need firepower during the 7–15 over phase, where they’ve lagged behind other sides. Bedi’s batting style could be the missing link.
CSK’s Middle-Order Puzzle Without Ruturaj
With Ruturaj Gaikwad batting at No. 3 in IPL 2025 and not in the mix anymore, the top order lacks stability and explosiveness. In recent matches, CSK tried Rahul Tripathi and Devon Conway alongside Rachin Ravindra — but none has matched Ruturaj’s past consistency.
Enter Vansh Bedi, whose fearless approach could allow Ravindra or Conway to anchor from the other end.
Controversy: Bedi’s Viral Sleeping Video
Interestingly, Vansh Bedi made headlines recently for an off-field moment. During the Delhi Capitals vs CSK match on 5 April 2025, Bedi was spotted asleep in the dugout, right beside Ravindra Jadeja during the powerplay. The clip went viral and stirred up questions about his mindset — but insiders suggest it was simply fatigue and nothing to do with his focus or intent.
Despite the momentary distraction, the management has not ruled out his inclusion — especially now with Ruturaj out.
What CSK Coach and Fans Will Be Watching
If MS Dhoni and the CSK think tank decide to include Bedi in the playing XI, he will likely bat at No. 3 or 4. His natural strokeplay against pace and spin could give CSK an aggressive dimension, especially on Chepauk’s unpredictable surface.
- Strengths: Quick acceleration, boundary-hitting in middle overs, strong against spin
- Weaknesses: Unproven at the IPL level, recent controversy
Why Vansh Bedi Might Be the Right Gamble
In a tournament as cutthroat as the IPL, bold moves often pay off. Vansh Bedi’s strike rate of 185 in a competitive domestic T20 league is no fluke. With CSK’s campaign needing a spark and their batting faltering between overs 7–15, this could be the perfect opportunity to hand the youngster his debut.
The Vansh Bedi vs Ruturaj Gaikwad debate may be inevitable, but the current scenario calls for flexibility. Ruturaj’s injury has opened a door, and Vansh Bedi seems ready to walk through it — if CSK gives him the green light.
CSK’s next game could very well feature a new name — one with a point to prove, a reputation to build, and a fiery bat to wield.
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