With a remaining purse of ₹43.40 crore, the Super Kings are expected to take an aggressive approach, focusing on strengthening their batting, all-round abilities, spin department, and death bowling.

1. Overseas Finisher & Power All-Rounder – Top Priority

The exits of Jadeja and Curran have left a major void in the middle and lower-middle order. CSK urgently needs a powerful overseas finisher or an all-rounder capable of handling multiple roles.

Liam Livingstone (Released by RCB)
A destructive hitter who also offers useful leg-spin and off-spin—perfect for filling two roles at once.

David Miller (Released by LSG)
One of the most reliable death-overs finishers in the IPL with calmness and experience.

Cameron Green (Released by RCB)
Expected to be one of the most expensive buys, but his long-term value as a fast-bowling all-rounder makes him an attractive option.

2. Frontline Indian Spinner – Crucial for Chepauk

With the Jadeja–Ashwin era ending, CSK’s spin department looks thin. On the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch, a top-quality Indian spinner is indispensable.

Ravi Bishnoi (Released by LSG)
A consistent wicket-taking leg-spinner with the ability to win matches.

Rahul Chahar (Released by SRH)
Experienced, dependable, and proven in the T20 format.

3. Overseas Fast Bowler – Death Overs Specialist

After releasing Matheesha Pathirana, CSK’s death-overs bowling has become uncertain. Their primary strategy will be to re-buy Pathirana at a lower price.
If that doesn’t work:

Gerald Coetzee (Released by GT)
A fiery, aggressive pacer capable of taking wickets with raw pace.

Anrich Nortje (Released by DC)
A seasoned international fast bowler known for his express speed.

4. Indian Batting & All-Round Depth

To strengthen domestic batting depth and add flexibility, CSK may target:

Venkatesh Iyer (Released by KKR)
Can bat anywhere from opening to middle order, plus useful medium pace.

Prithvi Shaw (Released by DC)
A fearless attacking opener who can also serve as a strong backup option.

Conclusion

The IPL 2026 Mega Auction is not just a talent hunt for CSK—it is the foundation for building their next era. With Sanju Samson already secured, the focus now shifts to strong all-rounders, quality spinners, and reliable death-bowling specialists. And with a hefty purse remaining, CSK might produce some major surprises on auction day.

After being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many assumed that he would not be sold in the next season’s auction. However, his recent performances have completely changed that perception. He played a blazing 106-run innings in the third ODI against India. In addition, he scored impressive innings of 63, 123*, and 53 runs in three ODIs against Pakistan.

This year’s auction will not only feature familiar players but also some new Sri Lankan cricketers. Travin Mathew, Binura Fernando, Kushal Perera, and Dunith Wellalage will be part of the list. Additionally, Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be in List 1 and could become the most expensive player in the auction.

The BCCI stated in a mail, “The auction will be held with 350 players and will begin at 1 PM UAE time (2:30 PM IST) on Tuesday, December 16, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.”

From a team finance perspective, KKR is entering the auction with the largest budget. They have ₹64.30 crore to fill 13 vacant spots. Meanwhile, 2023 champions Chennai Super Kings have a budget of ₹43.4 crore and are aiming to fine-tune their squad in the auction.

So, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be thrilling once again, setting the stage for new stories and big surprises for cricket fans.

ব্যাটিং শক্তি বাড়াতে নিলামে এই প্রাক্তনীকে টার্গেট নাইট শিবিরের!

Amid all this, reports suggest that a former Chennai Super Kings player might return to Kolkata. At the center of speculation is Indian batter Rahul Tripathi.

Released by CSK — Is Rahul Tripathi Set to Return to KKR?

Ahead of the 2026 auction, KKR holds the highest purse amount, and the management aims to spend it wisely by securing an experienced and reliable batsman. According to national media reports, KKR is targeting Rahul Tripathi to bring stability to the top order.

However, Tripathi’s recent form hasn’t been impressive. For Chennai Super Kings in the last IPL, he played only 5 matches and scored just 55 runs. Yet he scored a remarkable 413 runs in 14 matches in the 2022 season—a performance that had put him back into the spotlight.

Despite his current slump, franchises still remember his experience and explosive innings from earlier seasons. If KKR brings him back, the Indian batsman will have to repay that faith by rediscovering his old form.

Rahul & KKR — Will the Old Partnership Return?

Rahul Tripathi began his IPL journey in 2017, scoring 391 runs in his debut season and instantly catching attention. He later played for KKR in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, during which his partnership with Manish Pandey became quite memorable.

This is why Tripathi’s fans are hopeful. They believe KKR might bring back the familiar face because an experienced Indian top-order batsman can be crucial to strengthening the batting lineup for the new season.

Looking Ahead — KKR’s Plans Are Clear

The exclusion of names like Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer from the retention list made it clear that KKR are heading for major changes. Ensuring consistency in batting is now their top priority. If Rahul Tripathi returns, he could provide both experience and aggressive batting at the top.

নিলামে এই ৬ তারকা জন্য টাকার ঝুলি নিয়ে বসবে সব ফ্র্যাঞ্চাইজি! তালিকায় দুই KKR প্রাক্তনী

According to multiple media reports, six players are expected to attract the highest spending from IPL franchises. This list includes two former stars of Kolkata Knight Riders.

1. Cameron Green (Australia)
The all-rounder, dropped by Royal Challengers Bangalore, is likely to see intense bidding in the 2026 auction. Due to his batting and bowling skills, teams like Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Punjab Kings could spend around ₹15 crore to secure him.

2. Matheesha Pathirana (Sri Lanka)
This 22-year-old pacer has been a significant influence for Sri Lanka. After being released by Chennai Super Kings, IPL teams may compete heavily to acquire him. Experts predict his price could go over ₹15 crore.

3. Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
The spin all-rounder, left out of the retention list, is expected to attract bids from almost all major IPL teams. Kolkata Knight Riders could also be in the running to sign him.

4. Ravi Bishnoi (India)
The 25-year-old star spinner, released by Lucknow Super Giants, is highly sought after due to his exceptional bowling abilities. However, Lucknow will not retain him.

5. Shreyas Iyer (India)
The batsman, dropped from Kolkata Knight Riders’ retention list, was valued at ₹23.75 crore. Due to poor performance, he no longer has a place in KKR. Nevertheless, IPL teams could spend a hefty amount to buy him in the auction. If KKR re-signs him at the last moment, it would be a huge surprise.

6. Andre Russell (Caribbean)
After 11 years, this finisher has been released by KKR. While Kolkata is not looking to retain him, teams like Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Punjab Kings could bid big for him in the auction.

The IPL 2026 auction promises a real cash shower for these six cricketers, as franchises strategically bid to strengthen their squads. For cricket fans, this auction is set to usher in a thrilling new chapter.

সঞ্জুকে চেন্নাই নিলে, ‘জাদ্দুর’ সঙ্গে এই তারকা পেসারকে চাইছে রাজস্থান!

Chennai Super Kings Keen on Signing Sanju

According to reports, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been in serious talks with Rajasthan Royals to acquire Sanju Samson. Rajasthan, too, is reportedly open to releasing their skipper — but with one major condition: CSK must trade both Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in return.

Sources suggest that CSK initially showed interest in this deal but later clarified that no move would be made without Jadeja’s consent, as the all-rounder remains a vital part of their setup.

Rajasthan’s New Demand: Not Curran, But Pathirana!

The situation has since changed dramatically. Latest reports indicate that Rajasthan Royals have modified their offer, now demanding Sri Lankan pacer Matheesa Pathirana along with Jadeja, instead of Sam Curran.

However, Chennai is reluctant to accept this condition. After internal discussions between captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, coach Stephen Fleming, and mentor MS Dhoni, CSK has made it clear: “We can talk about Jadeja, but Pathirana — our future star — is absolutely untouchable.”

Delhi Capitals Were Also in the Race

Earlier, Delhi Capitals had also shown interest in Sanju Samson. They reportedly offered Tristan Stubbs to Rajasthan, but the Royals demanded young Indian batter Sameer Rizvi as well. Delhi refused, and the deal fell through.

At present, Rajasthan and Chennai remain the only two teams actively discussing a potential Sanju Samson trade.

It’s worth noting that Ravindra Jadeja began his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals, even winning the inaugural season with them. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson has spent over 11 years with Rajasthan, leading the team in recent seasons. After the previous IPL season, Sanju had hinted that “it might be time for a change.”

Now, with Rajasthan unwilling to compromise on their new demand and Chennai refusing to give up Pathirana, Sanju’s future remains uncertain. All eyes are on November 15, when the retention lists will finally reveal whether Sanju stays with Rajasthan or dons yellow for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026.

নিলামের আগেই অবসর নিচ্ছেন ‘থালা’? জানালাম চেন্নাই সুপার কিংসের CEO

In a conversation with Provoke Lifestyle magazine alongside his grandson Noah, Viswanathan said, “No, he’s not retiring before this IPL.” When asked about Dhoni’s retirement plans, he smiled and added, “I’ll let you know after talking to him.” His remarks make it quite evident that Mahi’s cricketing journey isn’t over yet.

The 2025 IPL season, however, was a disappointing one for Chennai Super Kings. The five-time champions managed to win only four out of 14 matches and, for the first time in their history, finished at the bottom of the points table. Following that poor performance, rumors swirled that perhaps fans had seen Dhoni on the field for the last time. But the CSK CEO’s comments have temporarily put an end to those speculations.

Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings since the inception of the IPL in 2008. Under his captaincy, the team has won five IPL titles — in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. CSK’s consistent performances and frequent playoff appearances stand as a testament to Dhoni’s leadership.

Recently, Dhoni himself made some intriguing comments about his future. In an interview with Harsha Bhogle, he said, “It actually depends. I have four to five months to decide.” He further added, “I’m not saying I’m done, but I’m not saying I’ll come back either. I have to keep myself fit — this is professional cricket, you have to be at your best.”

His words make it clear that Dhoni’s final decision will depend on his physical fitness and mental readiness. Even at 44, his fitness and on-field presence continue to thrill cricket fans.

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK has become more than just a team — it’s a brand. That’s why every time the question of his retirement arises, it stirs deep emotions among fans. But after the CEO’s latest statement, supporters now have fresh hope — they’ll get to see ‘Thala’ Dhoni in action for at least one more season.