Ashwin Reveals How CSK Clinched Dewald Brevis in a Smart Mid-Season Move.

In a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Chennai Super Kings’ recruitment strategy, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed how the franchise pulled off a shrewd coup to sign South African batting sensation Dewald Brevis during IPL 2025. Despite interest from multiple teams, CSK managed to swoop in and secure the talented youngster as an injury replacement a move that paid off handsomely in the latter stages of the tournament.

A STRATEGIC MASTERSTROKE BY CSK

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin described Brevis as a “crown jewel” and credited the CSK management for executing a well-timed and well-negotiated deal. According to him, several franchises had been in talks with Brevis after he went unsold in the previous mega-auction, but most failed to match the financial expectations set by his representatives.

> “I heard two to three teams were negotiating with Brevis,” Ashwin said. “But they weren’t willing to go beyond his base price of ₹75 lakh, and the talks fell through.”

CSK SEALS THE DEAL

Chennai Super Kings signed Brevis on April 18, midway through the season, when the team was struggling to find consistency in its batting order. Alongside Ayush Mhatre, Brevis was brought in as a replacement player, and the duo made an immediate impact.

Ashwin highlighted how CSK’s willingness to meet Brevis’ valuation made all the difference.

> “He told teams, ‘If I come now and perform, my value rises. So pay me accordingly.’ CSK understood that and agreed to his terms. It was a brilliant move,” Ashwin noted. “Now they’ve got themselves a player who could be central to their future.”

BREVIS SHINES BRIGHT

Dewald Brevis didn’t take long to justify CSK’s investment. In just six matches, he racked up 225 runs at a blistering strike rate of 180, including two crucial half-centuries that helped Chennai climb back into playoff contention. His explosive performances breathed new life into CSK’s campaign during the crucial final leg of the tournament.

A RISING STAR WITH GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Brevis' IPL exploits came on the heels of an outstanding international milestone. Before joining CSK, he had scored his maiden T20I century for South Africa against Australia, becoming the youngest South African to achieve the feat. The innings turned global heads and added to his growing reputation as one of cricket’s next big stars.

FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR CSK

Ashwin concluded by praising CSK’s squad management and hinted at a promising road ahead. With Brevis in the mix and ₹30 crore left in their purse ahead of the upcoming mini-auction, Ashwin believes CSK are well-positioned to build a title-contending team.

> “They really cracked their combination in the second half of the season,” Ashwin said. “Heading into the mini-auction with a solid core and financial flexibility, CSK is looking prime and proper for the next season.”

CONCLUSION

CSK’s calculated risk to sign Dewald Brevis mid-season has proven to be one of the smartest moves of IPL 2025. With rising stars like him in the lineup and a strong auction strategy in place, the Men in Yellow seem poised for another dominant chapter in their storied IPL legacy.