The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had a forgettable IPL 2025 season, finishing at the bottom of the table, their worst result in tournament history. Poor performances, injuries, and an aging squad have pushed the franchise towards a major rebuild.
Reports suggest that CSK will release several senior and underperforming players to free up money in the purse for the IPL 2026 mega auction and make way for fresh talent. Here’s a look at seven players who are most likely to be released.
7. Mukesh Choudhary – Left-Arm Fast Bowler
Although he has shown promise in the past, Mukesh didn’t get enough chances in 2025 and is among the names mentioned in reports of likely releases. CSK may prefer to invest in a more proven domestic pacer. The management might opt for someone with both IPL experience and recent form.
6. Jamie Overton / Nathan Ellis – Overseas Pacers
Both Overton and Ellis are listed among “other released players” in media reports. Neither had a standout season, and CSK might opt to release at least one of them to open an overseas slot for a more impactful bowler. Their inability to deliver breakthroughs at key moments reduced their value to the side.
5. Vijay Shankar – All-Rounder
Shankar scored 118 runs in 6 matches but couldn’t deliver in pressure moments as a finisher. With several younger all-rounders available in the auction, CSK may decide not to retain him. A lack of big-hitting consistency in the death overs weakened his case for retention.
4. Deepak Hooda – All-Rounder
Hooda’s numbers were underwhelming, just 31 runs in 5 innings at a strike rate of 75.61, without making a significant bowling impact. CSK is expected to move on and find a stronger middle-order option. His inability to accelerate in the middle overs often left the team under pressure.
3. Devon Conway – Overseas Top-order Batsman
Injuries and inconsistent form hurt Conway’s campaign. He scored only 156 runs in 6 matches and missed a few games due to fitness issues. Considering his ₹6.25 crore price tag, CSK may look for a more reliable overseas opener.
The team needs an opener who can provide quick starts and play the anchor role when needed.
2. Rahul Tripathi – Middle-Order Batter
Tripathi managed just 55 runs in 5 innings, averaging only 11. For a top-order/middle-order role, this return was well below expectations. CSK is likely to release him to bring in a more consistent performer. His struggles against both pace and spin made it difficult for him to cement his place in the XI.
1. Ravichandran Ashwin – Off-Spinning All-Rounder
Ashwin was bought for ₹9.75 crore but picked up only 7 wickets in 9 matches with an economy rate of over 9.13. His overall impact didn’t match his price tag. Multiple reports also confirm he is set to part ways with CSK and step down from his academy role to avoid any conflict of interest.
Why These Releases Make Sense
- Poor 2025 performance: CSK finished 10th, which calls for a major shake-up.
- Freeing up funds: Letting go of these players will release several crores in the purse ahead of the auction.
- Fresh talent: Younger, in-form players can replace aging or inconsistent members of the squad.
Likely Released Players List
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Rahul Tripathi
- Devon Conway
- Deepak Hooda
- Vijay Shankar
- Jamie Overton / Nathan Ellis
- Mukesh Choudhary
Conclusion
Chennai Super Kings have been one of the most consistent franchises in IPL history, but their 2025 season showed that change is needed. Releasing these names will give them the budget and squad flexibility to rebuild for a stronger IPL 2026 campaign.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
