Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made some bold calls ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. They released 13 players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran through trades, and also let go of Matheesha Pathirana, Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway. R Ashwin retired too. These moves opened up a big purse of ₹43.40 crore, giving the team enough room to rebuild smartly.
CSK are expected to focus on an Indian spinner, an overseas all-rounder and strong Indian batting options during the mini auction on December 16. Here is a look at the five players they are most likely to target.
1. Cameron Green
CSK see Cameron Green as the perfect replacement for the all-rounders they lost. He can bat anywhere from No. 3 to No. 5 and bowl four overs of fast-medium pace. This gives CSK balance in both departments.
Green has 707 IPL runs at a strike rate of 153 and 16 wickets from 29 matches. At 26, he fits into CSK’s long-term plan with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson. His bowling also allows CSK to play an extra spinner at Chepauk. Many feel he belongs in the top order, but CSK could also use his power late in the innings.
2. Ravi Bishnoi
With Jadeja traded and Ashwin retired, CSK urgently need a reliable Indian spinner. Ravi Bishnoi is the best available option. His fast, attacking style suits Chepauk, where spinners enjoy good help.
Bishnoi is only 26 and can be the team’s spin anchor for years. Adding him also frees up overseas slots for big hitters or a death bowler. He brings control and regular wickets in the middle overs, which is something CSK value highly.
3. Prithvi Shaw
CSK want an explosive Indian opener to pair with Ruturaj Gaikwad. Prithvi Shaw fits that role. He attacks from ball one, which lets Gaikwad play his natural, calmer game.
Shaw went unsold in IPL 2025 but hit back with strong domestic form, including a double hundred in the Ranji Trophy and a high strike rate in the SMAT. His comeback makes him a handy target at a reasonable price. He also strengthens the Indian batting group, which CSK are rebuilding after the Dhoni era.
4. Venkatesh Iyer
CSK also need a left-handed batter to balance their right-heavy batting order. Venkatesh Iyer offers that plus useful medium-pace. He can open or bat in the middle and gives the side a sixth bowling option.
Iyer scored 142 runs in 11 games in IPL 2025, so his price may drop this time. That could work in CSK’s favour. He also brings experience as a capped Indian player, helping the team plan for the long term.
5. Matheesha Pathirana
Even though they released him, CSK are likely to try and get Matheesha Pathirana back. He is one of the best death bowlers in the league, with a slingy action that makes him tough to face. He has 47 wickets in 32 IPL matches and was a key part of their 2023 title win.
An injury affected his 2025 season, but that could make him available at a lower price than the ₹13 crore they once paid. CSK lack a proven death bowler right now, so re-signing Pathirana could solve a major problem.