IPL 2026 auction: How Chennai Super Kings stack up
What's the story
The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) min-auction is set to take place on December 16. More than 300 players will go under the hammer as teams look to complete their rosters. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions, have the second-biggest purse remaining ahead of the bidding event. They can fill in a maximum of nine slots. Have a look at their auction strategy.
Players released
Players released and purse remaining
CSK, who finished last in IPL 2025, traded out Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja to acquire Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals for ₹18 crore. Despite Samson's inclusion, Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue to lead CSK. Players released: Rahul Tripathi, Vansh Bedi, C Andre Siddarth, Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, Shaik Rasheed, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, and Matheesha Pathirana. Purse remaining: ₹43.40 crore.
Information
Players retained by CSK
Players retained: MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brewis, Shivam Dube, Urvil Patel, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Khaleel Ahmed, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Mukesh Choudhary, Jamie Overton, Gurjapneet Singh, and Anshul Kamboj.
Strategy
A look at CSK's road ahead
As mentioned, the Super Kings can fill in a maximum of nine slots at the impending auction, including four overseas players. They are expected to go all out for an overseas all-rounder, who can bolster the batting line-up, especially with Curran departing. CSK also need a couple of spinners after the departure of Jadeja (traded out) and R Ashwin (retired).
IPL 2025
How CSK fared in IPL 2025
In a historic turn of events, CSK finished last in IPL 2025. Although CSK registered an impressive victory against Gujarat Titans in their final match, their overall performance was disappointing. CSK lost 10 of their 14 games. Moreover, Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out midway due to an injury. There was no improvement, especially in the batting order, even with MS Dhoni at the helm.