In a surprising development ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina made a bold statement, hinting that young wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant could be on his way to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after parting ways with Delhi Capitals (DC).

Raina revealed that Pant and MS Dhoni were recently spotted together, sparking speculation about Pant donning the iconic CSK yellow in the upcoming season.

CSK recently announced their retention list, securing key players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, and Ravindra Jadeja. 

Notably, they reclassified MS Dhoni as an uncapped player under IPL's new rule. With ₹55 crore left in their purse and an RTM card, CSK is expected to face fierce competition for Pant's signature, but his aggressive style and leadership qualities could be a significant long-term asset for the franchise.

"When I met MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant was also present. I feel something big is about to happen, someone will definitely wear the yellow," Raina said during a JioCinema broadcast on Thursday, further fueling rumors.

Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, have retained four players—Axar Patel, Abhishek Porel, Tristan Stubbs, and Kuldeep Yadav—leaving them with a massive INR 73 crore in their purse as they head into the auction.