Explained: Controversial Dewald Brevis signing by CSK in IPL 2025

Dubai: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings find themselves in the IPL spotlight — not for a last-ball six, but for the midseason signing of South Africa’s Dewald Brevis, with questions swirling over whether the franchise paid “extra money” to secure the young star.

The controversy erupted after CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that Brevis might have negotiated a higher fee to join the team. “I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him but had to let him go after not being able to pay extra money. He might have told CSK, ‘I’ll need the extra money,’ and the team was willing to pay him,” Ashwin said.

Brevis, who went unsold at the IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah, was signed in April as a midseason replacement for pacer Gurjapneet Singh, who was ruled out due to injury. Gurjapneet had been bought for Rs22 million at the auction. Ashwin’s comments prompted speculation about whether CSK had breached IPL regulations by offering more than the allowed fee for a replacement player.

CSK moved quickly to clarify the situation, stressing that the signing was fully compliant with tournament rules. In its statement, the franchise confirmed that Brevis was signed for the same amount Gurjapneet had fetched — Rs22 million — citing clause 6.6 of the IPL Player Regulations 2025—27, which governs replacement players. The statement also referenced an official IPL media advisory issued on April 18, which confirmed the terms of the signing.

Under IPL regulations, a replacement player cannot be signed for a fee exceeding that of the player he replaces, and the league fee is adjusted according to the number of matches remaining in the season. CSK emphasised that all due processes had been followed, aiming to quell the rumours of any additional payments.

Ashwin, however, has faced criticism for publicly discussing Brevis’ contract. Former CSK batter Anirudha Srikkanth said revealing such details could be unethical and problematic while still part of the franchise. Responding to the backlash, Ashwin clarified, “My intent in the old video was to talk about Brevis’ batting, not about his IPL signing amount. We have to understand that every player who plays in the IPL has a contract with the franchise and the tournament. If there is anything wrong, it won’t be ratified. My point was about his batting, not money.”

He added, “No mistake has been made by the franchise, the player, or the governing body,” stressing the need to address such controversies promptly.

Beyond the contractual debate, Brevis’ cricketing credentials continue to draw attention. At just 22 years old, he has already become one of South Africa’s most exciting young talents. In the recently concluded three-match T20 series against Australia, he amassed 180 runs, including a sensational 125 not out off 56 balls in the second match — an innings that featured 13 fours and 14 sixes. The explosive performance underscored his ability to dominate bowlers and thrive in high-pressure situations.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma heaped praise on the young talent, who made his ODI debut against Australia in Cairns on Tuesday. “When new faces come into the team, the excitement increases. Everyone’s eyes are on Brevis; he has shown with his performance what he can do. I am eager to see what new he brings to ODI cricket,” Bavuma said.

The IPL controversy has thus unfolded alongside Brevis’ rising profile, blending off-field scrutiny with on-field brilliance. While CSK insists all regulations were followed, the debate highlights the increasing spotlight on young international stars navigating IPL contracts, negotiations, and midseason signings.

As Brevis continues to shine on the field, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely — not just his strokes and sixes, but also how franchises handle the rules when chasing promising talent.