IPL 2025: Who is Vansh Bedi? Why CSK replaced him with Hooda at last minute against RCB

In the recent IPL 2025 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, a surprising last-minute alteration in CSK’s playing XI has gone viral. A name struck out from the team sheet just before the toss revealed that 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Vansh Bedi, who was slated to make his debut, was replaced by Indian all-rounder Deepak Hooda.

The decision to drop Bedi, reportedly due to an injury sustained during practice, grabbed eyeballs. Fans circulated images of the original team sheet that had Bedi’s name visibly struck out and replaced with Hooda, believing that the change was made moments before the match. While CSK captain MS Dhoni won the toss and elected to field, but didn't mention anything regarding the change during the toss.

Check the post below: 

𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐨@SergioCSKK

Last minute change, Deepak Hooda comes in for Vansh Bedi. He picked up an injury during the practice today. Unlucky.

07:10 PM · May 03, 2025

1.4K169

Bedi, who was bought for INR 55 lakh at the IPL 2025 auction, had impressed during the domestic season with 221 runs in nine matches. Many saw the RCB clash as a perfect opportunity for the youngster to make his debut. However, the reported injury setback denied him a potential dream debut.

On the other hand, Hooda’s inclusion did little to change CSK’s results. Despite being brought in as a last-minute replacement, the right-hand batter did not get a chance to bat as CSK fell two runs short while chasing 214. His overall performance in the tournament has been underwhelming, managing just 31 runs across five innings at a strike rate below 76.

The match was a run-fest, with Ayush Mhatre’s 94 and Ravindra Jadeja’s unbeaten 77 keeping CSK in the hunt till the final ball. Meanwhile, CSK has had a poor season with just two wins in ten matches before the RCB encounter, as the team has struggled to find the right combination.