Would CSK have made Rishabh Pant a bigger star?

Rishabh Pant and MS Dhoni (Source: Rishabh Pant)

Indian Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant is one of modern cricket’s most explosive and fearless batters. He is known for his unorthodox stroke play and aggressive intent, and has built a reputation for taking on bowlers right from the first delivery, regardless of the match situation. His unique and entertaining batting style has earned him immense popularity among fans and experts alike.

Pant made his mark through the Indian Premier League (IPL), debuting for the Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) in 2016. His breakout season came in IPL 2018, where he amassed 684 runs at a blistering strike rate of 173.60. He followed it up with another solid season in 2019, scoring 488 runs at a strike rate of 162.66, proving his consistency and match-winning ability. In 2021, Pant was handed the captaincy of Delhi Capitals, leading them to the top of the points table and earning praise for his leadership.

After recovering from his near-fatal car accident in December 2022, Pant made a remarkable return in IPL 2024, scoring 446 runs in a mixed season for Delhi. Ahead of IPL 2025, he made headlines when the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured his services for a record INR 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL auction history. However, one question still lingers among fans, what if Rishabh Pant had played for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

How CSK could have changed Rishabh Pant’s career?

The Chennai Super Kings, formerly led by the iconic MS Dhoni, are one of the most successful IPL teams, with five titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023). Pant, who idolises Dhoni, would have fit seamlessly into CSK’s culture. Under Dhoni’s mentorship, Pant could have refined his tactical understanding and game awareness while maintaining his natural flair. His personality, playful yet fearless, mirrors the calm yet commanding aura that CSK embodies.

Had Pant donned the yellow jersey, he could have evolved into CSK’s next-generation leader, carrying forward Dhoni’s legacy while adding his own aggressive edge. The passionate Chennai crowd would have adored his energy, and his brand might have grown even bigger. Playing under Dhoni’s guidance, Pant’s career trajectory might have reached even greater heights, turning him from a superstar into an enduring legend of the IPL.