CSK Set to Release Senior Players, Free Up Purse for 2026 IPL Auction

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to release senior players, including R Ashwin, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra, to free up purse for the 2026 IPL auction. The team is looking to rebuild the squad after finishing last in IPL 2025. CSK plans to strengthen the top order, middle order, and pace attack with players like Cameron Green and Ben Duckett. Sanju Samson, who may leave Rajasthan Royals, is also a possible target for CSK.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is set to undergo a significant rebuild ahead of the 2026 IPL auction. The team, which finished last in the 2025 season, is planning to release several senior players to free up funds for new acquisitions [1]. Key players like R Ashwin, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra are likely to be let go, opening up a purse of approximately Rs 34.45 crore [1].

The team's strategy is to focus on strengthening three key areas: the top order, the middle order, and the pace attack. CSK is looking to bolster its batting lineup with a top-order hitter, a strong Indian middle-order batsman, and a quality all-rounder. Potential targets include Cameron Green and Ben Duckett, who are expected to be available at the auction [1].

Sanju Samson, who may leave Rajasthan Royals, is also a possible target for CSK. However, the franchise may face challenges in acquiring him, as Rajasthan Royals is not keen on exchanging any of its key marquee players for CSK's outgoing stars [1]. The only feasible option could be a 'cash-only' deal, which would require substantial convincing from the CSK management [1].

MS Dhoni, the former captain of CSK, is expected to continue playing for the team in the next season. Dhoni himself has indicated that he will take a call after assessing his body's condition in the coming months [1].

The rebuilding process comes as CSK aims to return to its winning ways and challenge for the title in the upcoming seasons. The team is set to enter the auction with a purse in the vicinity of Rs 40 crore, which will be used strategically to bolster the squad [1].

References:
[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl/top-stories/ipl-csk-may-free-up-purse-to-add-firepower-dhoni-likely-to-play/articleshow/123200280.cms
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/cricket/ipl/ashwin-set-to-part-ways-with-chennai-super-kings-before-ipl-2026-auction-125080801540_1.html