The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have not yet officially disclosed their retention list for the IPL 2026 auction. Several reports state that the franchise has shortlisted some of the mix of experienced stars, some of the young domestic players, and some impactful overseas talents as they look to rebuild following a below-par 2025 campaign.
Why CSK Are Expected to Go for a Balanced Retention
After CSK had a disappointing season in 2025, their management is focused on long-term stability rather than a complete overhaul. The franchise has always valued loyalty, experience, and consistency, qualities that have defined its success under MS Dhoni.
As the IPL 2026 mega auction is approaching, CSK is aiming to retain players who fit their culture, offer leadership on and off the field, and can help the team transition smoothly into a new era which is led by Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Probable players expected to get retained by CSK for IPL 2026
15. Shaik Rasheed – A talented young batter who brings stability and potential for long-term growth. CSK believe he could evolve into a dependable top-order player in the coming seasons.
14. Anshul Kamboj – A developing Indian pacer being groomed for the future. His pace and aggression have caught CSK’s attention in domestic cricket.
13. Andre Siddharth – A young domestic right-handed batter who has shown promise with his consistent stroke play. He is known for his solid technique and ability to build partnerships in the middle order.
12. Urvil Patel – Offers backup wicketkeeping and batting options. Urvil’s attacking batting also provides depth in the lower middle order.
11. Shivam Dube – A proven match-winner and explosive middle-order batter. Dube has been one of CSK’s biggest positives in recent seasons, known for his power-hitting against spin.
10. Mukesh Choudhary – Effective with the new ball and dependable in home conditions. After recovering from injury, he’s expected to play a more regular role in 2026.
9. Khaleel Ahmed – Adds left-arm pace variety and experience among Indian bowlers. His recent domestic performances have shown consistency and improved control.
8. Noor Ahmad – The Afghan spinner strengthens CSK’s spin department alongside Jadeja. His youthful energy and deceptive variations make him dangerous on turning tracks.
7. Matheesha Pathirana – The Sri Lankan death-bowling specialist remains a key overseas asset. His slingy action and yorker accuracy have already won CSK crucial matches.
6. Ayush Mhatre – A domestic talent CSK see as part of their long-term future. Though still inexperienced, Mhatre’s aggressive batting has impressed the management.
5. Rachin Ravindra – The Kiwi all-rounder offers flexibility with his top-order batting and left-arm spin. His adaptability to Indian conditions makes him a great fit for CSK’s playing style.
4. Dewald Brevis – The South African youngster adds power and fearless batting to the middle order. CSK view him as a long-term overseas investment who can finish games.
3. Nathan Ellis – The Australian pacer brings control and consistency to the bowling unit. Known for his accuracy and clever variations, Ellis could be key in Chennai’s home conditions.
2. MS Dhoni – Expected to stay for his leadership and mentorship, even if his playing role reduces. Dhoni’s tactical brain and calmness remain unmatched in the IPL.
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad – The captain and reliable opener, seen as the long-term leader of the side.He has been the backbone of CSK’s batting in recent seasons, showing calmness under pressure.
Also read: IPL 2026: Who Will Mumbai Indians Release to Increase Their Auction Purse?
CSK’s Retention Strategy Explained
- Strong Indian Core: Players like Gaikwad, Jadeja, Dube, and the Indian fast bowlers give CSK a strong and reliable local base.
- Young Overseas Players: Brevis, Rachin, Noor, Pathirana, and Ellis show CSK’s focus on energetic and modern T20 players.
- Smooth Leadership Change: Keeping Dhoni helps ensure an easy transition of captaincy to Gaikwad while keeping his guidance in the team.
- Focus on Young Talent: CSK will retain several young Indian players to build for the future.
- Balanced Bowling Attack: With both pacers and spinners in the squad, CSK have a well-rounded bowling unit for all types of conditions.
Conclusion
CSK’s reported retention list reflects their commitment to balancing experience with future planning. Their leadership remains strong, and with 16 players likely retained, they’ll look to use the rest of their budget to add depth to their batting and bowling.
Written by Kinjal Walantra