The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, are preparing for the 2026 season with some major decisions regarding player retention and releases. With a mix of experienced stars and young talents, CSK 2026 squad will be stronger to compete for the title again.
Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 Squad
CSK’s squad for the 2026 IPL season is expected to feature a blend of familiar faces and exciting newcomers. The team management is focusing on strengthening the squad balance, ensuring depth in both batting and bowling departments.
Which players will be released by CSK ahead of IPL 2026?
After a tough IPL 2025 season, where CSK finished at the bottom of the table, some big changes are expected for 2026. Here are the players likely to be released:
1. Rahul Tripathi
Tripathi struggled with form, scoring only 55 runs in five matches. As a top-order batsman, his performance was below expectations.
2. Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin managed just 7 wickets in 9 games and was quite expensive, with an economy rate of 9.12. CSK may release him to free up funds for better options.
3. Deepak Hooda
Hooda scored only 31 runs in six matches, failing to make an impact in the middle order.
4. Devon Conway
After a great 2023 season, Conway couldn’t repeat his performance in 2025, scoring just 104 runs in five matches. His inconsistent form may lead to his release.
5. Vijay Shankar
Though given chances in the middle over’s, Shankar scored 118 runs in five innings. His lack of consistent impact may see him being released.
Which players will be retained by CSK for IPL 2026?
Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Ravichandran Ashwin, Matheesha Pathirana, Shreyas Gopal, Rachin Ravindra, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Shaik Rasheed, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Andre Siddarth C
Key players from IPL 2025 campaign to build team for the future
1. Ravindra Jadeja
The experienced all-rounder remains a vital part of the team with his consistent contributions in both batting and bowling.
2. Ayush Mhatre
Mhatre impressed everyone as a mid-season replacement, giving CSK strong starts at the top. He’s likely to be seen as a long-term prospect.
3. Dewald Brevis
The young South African batter made an immediate impact with his power-hitting. CSK may hold on to him for his big-match potential.
4. Khaleel Ahmed
One of CSK’s top wicket-takers in 2025, the left-arm pacer is expected to be an important part of the bowling unit next season too.
5. Anshul Kamboj
The young fast bowler showed promise by picking up crucial wickets. His performance has likely earned him a spot in the retained list.
CSK 2026 Playing XI
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Ayush Mhatre
- Urvil Patel
- Dewald Brevis
- Shivam Dube
- Ravindra Jadeja
- MS Dhoni (C & WK)
- Noor Ahmed
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Anshul Kamboj
