by Chennai Super Kings had a nightmare run in IPL 2025.
The five-time champions finished dead last in the points table with just four wins from fourteen matches.
For a franchise synonymous with consistency and playoff finishes, this was nothing short of shocking.
Injuries didn’t help. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad missed most of the season after getting hurt in match five.
MS Dhoni took over as captain again, but even his legendary touch couldn’t salvage the campaign.
Despite brilliant individual performances from youngsters like Noor Ahmad, Dewald Brevis, and Ayush Mhatre, the team couldn’t find its rhythm.
The bowling department, especially the pace attack, looked toothless.
The middle order lacked the firepower CSK teams are known for.
It was a season to forget—but also one that taught valuable lessons about squad building and balance.
Now, with IPL 2026 on the horizon, all eyes are on the CSK retentions 2026.
Which players will the Yellow Army keep? Who gets released? And most importantly, will MS Dhoni play another season?
CSK Retentions 2026
This comprehensive guide breaks down CSK’s retention strategy, the players they’re banking on, the youngsters they’re investing in, and what fans can expect from their beloved franchise heading into the next auction.
Why CSK Needs a Serious Rebuild for 2026?
IPL 2025 exposed cracks that CSK management can no longer ignore. This wasn’t just bad luck or a few close losses – it was systematic failure across multiple departments.
- Bowling Collapse
CSK’s pace bowling looked amateur at times. Apart from Matheesha Pathirana, nobody consistently took wickets or controlled run flow. Opposition batsmen treated CSK bowlers like net practice, especially in death overs.
The spin department relied heavily on Ravindra Jadeja. When he had an off day, there was nobody to pick up the slack consistently. For a team playing home matches at Chepauk—traditionally a spin paradise—this was unacceptable.
- Middle Order Mess
When top-order batsmen failed, the middle order couldn’t rescue the innings. The batting looked one-dimensional, lacking the flexibility to adapt to different match situations. Power hitters didn’t fire when needed. Anchor batsmen couldn’t accelerate when required.
- Injury Crisis
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury devastated CSK’s plans. He’s not just their captain—he’s their most consistent top-order batsman. Losing him early disrupted team balance completely, forcing hasty changes that never quite worked.
- The Way Forward
CSK management knows they need to strengthen their bowling attack, particularly pace bowling. They need middle-order firepower. They need backup options if key players get injured again.
The CSK retentions 2026 will reflect these lessons. Expect CSK to keep their core performers while being ruthless about releasing players who didn’t deliver.
Confirmed & Likely Players CSK Will Retain
Based on performances, potential, and team requirements, here are the eleven players CSK is expected to retain before the IPL 2026 mega auction.
CSK’s Likely Retention List
| Player Name | Role | Key IPL Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Ruturaj Gaikwad (C) | Top-order Batter | 2,502 runs at 40.35 average for CSK |
| Ravindra Jadeja | All-Rounder | 2,354 runs & 152 wickets in 200 CSK matches |
| Shivam Dube | All-Rounder | 1,460 runs at 151.60 strike rate for CSK |
| Noor Ahmad | Spin Bowler | 24 wickets in 14 games at 8.16 economy |
| Matheesha Pathirana | Fast Bowler | 47 wickets in 32 games at 8.68 economy |
| Khaleel Ahmed | Fast Bowler | 15 wickets in 14 games at 9.57 economy |
| Rachin Ravindra | Top-order Batter | 413 runs in 18 CSK matches |
| Anshul Kamboj | Fast Bowler | 8 wickets at 8.5 economy, promising Indian pacer |
| Dewald Brevis | Middle-order Batter | 225 runs in 6 matches at 180 strike rate |
| MS Dhoni | Wicketkeeper-Batter | 5,314 runs for CSK, 5-time champion captain |
| Sam Curran | All-Rounder | 356 runs & 23 wickets for CSK |
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – The Captain
Ruturaj is CSK’s future. With 2,502 runs at a solid 40.35 average, he’s proven himself as a quality opener who can anchor innings or accelerate when needed. His Orange Cap win in IPL 2021 showed his class.
Despite the injury-plagued 2025 season, CSK management trusts him to lead the franchise forward. He represents continuity, youth, and the ability to handle pressure—exactly what CSK needs post-Dhoni era.
- Ravindra Jadeja – The Complete Cricketer
Jaddu remains CSK’s most valuable player. With 2,354 runs and 152 wickets in 200 matches, his numbers speak for themselves. But statistics don’t capture his full value.
Jadeja’s fielding alone is worth runs saved. His ability to bowl economically in any phase, bat aggressively when needed, and provide leadership depth makes him irreplaceable. CSK without Jadeja isn’t really CSK.
- Shivam Dube – The Spin Destroyer
Dube brings exactly what modern T20 cricket demands—fearless power hitting. His 1,460 runs at a 151.60 strike rate prove he can dismantle any bowling attack, especially spinners.
In the middle overs when scoring slows down, Dube accelerates. In death overs when pressure mounts, Dube delivers. His occasional bowling adds flexibility, making him a complete middle-order package.
- Noor Ahmad – The Young Spin Sensation
Noor’s 24 wickets in just 14 games at 8.16 economy were arguably CSK’s brightest spot in IPL 2025. The young Afghan spinner showed maturity beyond his years, picking wickets in powerplays and middle overs.
Retaining Noor secures CSK’s spin department for years. Paired with Jadeja, they form a lethal spin combination perfect for Chepauk’s turning tracks.
- Matheesha Pathirana – The Pace Spearhead
Pathirana is CSK’s most consistent fast bowler with 47 wickets in 32 matches. His Malinga-like slingy action and devastating yorkers make him nightmare fuel for batsmen in death overs.
At just 21 years old, Pathirana represents CSK’s long-term pace bowling solution. His ability to bowl economically while taking wickets makes him worth every rupee of retention money.
- Khaleel Ahmed – The Left-Arm Advantage
Khaleel’s left-arm angle provides variation in CSK’s pace attack. His 15 wickets with 9.57 economy show he’s reliable, even if not spectacular.
Being an Indian pacer who can bowl with the new ball and control middle overs makes Khaleel valuable. CSK needs Indian core strength, and Khaleel provides exactly that.
- Rachin Ravindra – The Left-Handed Balance
Though Rachin’s 413 runs seem modest, his technique and temperament impressed CSK management. The left-handed New Zealander provides top-order balance and can adapt his game to different situations.
CSK sees long-term potential in Rachin. His ability to open or bat number three gives team selection flexibility that’s invaluable in tournament cricket.
- Anshul Kamboj – The Future Indian Pacer
Kamboj’s eight wickets at 8.5 economy might not seem spectacular, but CSK sees something special. The young Indian pacer showed discipline and intelligence beyond his limited experience.
Retaining Kamboj signals CSK’s commitment to developing homegrown pace talent. In a league where quality Indian pacers are gold dust, investing in Kamboj makes strategic sense.
- Dewald Brevis – The South African Firecracker
Brevis exploded onto the scene mid-season with 225 runs in just six matches at a blistering 180 strike rate. The young South African batsman showed the fearless aggression that T20 cricket rewards.
His ability to clear boundaries from ball one makes him a perfect middle-order weapon. CSK’s retention of Brevis suggests they’re building a young, explosive batting core for the future.
- MS Dhoni – The Eternal Captain
Will Dhoni play IPL 2026? That’s the billion-dollar question. If he does, CSK will definitely retain him. With 5,314 runs and five championship trophies, Dhoni isn’t just a player—he’s the franchise’s soul.
Even if he doesn’t play, Dhoni’s mentorship role remains crucial. His strategic guidance helps Ruturaj grow as a captain. His presence keeps team morale high. His legacy attracts sponsors and fans.
Dhoni’s retention is about more than cricket—it’s about honoring the man who made CSK what it is today.
- Sam Curran – The Utility Player
Curran’s 356 runs and 23 wickets showcase his all-round value. He can bat anywhere from number six to nine. He can bowl power play, middle overs, or death overs. That flexibility is priceless.
Having a quality overseas all-rounder who adapts to any role gives CSK options other teams lack. Curran’s retention ensures squad depth and tactical versatility.
Youngsters CSK Will Invest In
While retaining proven performers, CSK is also betting heavily on youth. Three names stand out as long-term investments that could define CSK’s future.
- Noor Ahmad – Afghanistan’s Gift to CSK
Already discussed in retentions, but worth emphasizing—Noor represents CSK’s spin bowling future. At just 19, he’s already picking wickets against the world’s best T20 batsmen. Five years from now, Noor could be the IPL’s premier spinner.
- Anshul Kamboj – The Homegrown Talent
Finding quality Indian pacers who can bowl 140+ kmph with control is like finding diamonds. Kamboj has that potential. CSK’s investment in him could pay dividends for a decade if he develops properly.
- Dewald Brevis – Baby AB’s Evolution
Nicknamed “Baby AB” for his resemblance to AB de Villiers’ batting style, Brevis has ridiculous talent. His 180 strike rate in IPL 2025 wasn’t fluky—it was calculated aggression based on pure skill.
If CSK nurtures him properly, Brevis could become one of world cricket’s premier T20 batsmen. That’s the kind of investment that wins multiple championships.
Who Might Be Released Before IPL 2026 Auction?
Not everyone survives the retention process. Based on IPL 2025 performances, several players could find themselves released before the mega auction.
- Underperforming Overseas Players
CSK had several overseas players who didn’t justify their selection in 2025. With only four overseas spots available, CSK needs every foreign player to deliver. Those who didn’t perform will likely be released and potentially re-bought cheaper at auction.
- Aging Players Past Their Peak
CSK traditionally backs experienced players, sometimes for too long. IPL 2026 might see CSK being more ruthless about releasing older players who’ve clearly declined, making room for younger talent.
- Backup Players Who Never Featured
Squad players who didn’t get game time despite the team struggling will probably be released. CSK needs match-winners, not bench-warmers.
- Indian Bowlers Who Disappointed
Several Indian bowlers failed to make an impact in IPL 2025. With CSK needing to strengthen their pace attack, those who didn’t perform will likely make way for new options at the auction.
The CSK retentions 2026 will be as much about who they release as who they keep. Strategic releases create auction budget flexibility to buy exactly what CSK needs.
Dhoni’s Future: Will He Play in 2026?
This question keeps CSK fans awake at night. Will MS Dhoni, now 44 years old, play another IPL season?
- The Case for Playing
Dhoni’s fitness remains surprisingly good. His wicketkeeping is still sharp. His finishing ability, though not what it once was, can still win matches. Most importantly, his leadership and mentorship are invaluable for Ruturaj’s development.
- The Case for Retirement
Age catches everyone eventually. Dhoni might feel he’s given everything to CSK and cricket. Retiring at the top, as a legend, appeals to many athletes. He could continue as a mentor without the physical demands of playing.
- The Likely Reality
CSK will retain Dhoni regardless of his playing decision. If he plays, fantastic. If he retires as a player but stays as a mentor, that works too. Dhoni’s value to CSK transcends his batting or wicketkeeping.
Expect an announcement closer to IPL 2026. Until then, fans will hope for one more season of Captain Cool in yellow.
CSK’s Possible Core XI for IPL 2026
Based on likely retentions, here’s how CSK’s playing eleven might look:
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (C) – Captain and reliable opener
- Rachin Ravindra – Left-handed top-order balance
- Dewald Brevis – Explosive middle-order power
- Shivam Dube – Spin destroyer and finisher
- Ravindra Jadeja – World-class all-rounder
- Sam Curran – Overseas all-rounder utility
- MS Dhoni (WK) – Wicketkeeper and mentor figure
- Matheesha Pathirana – Death bowling specialist
- Khaleel Ahmed – New ball and middle overs
- Noor Ahmad – Attacking spin option
- Anshul Kamboj – Young Indian pace talent
This lineup balances experience with youth, Indian core with overseas quality, and batting firepower with bowling variety. It addresses most weaknesses exposed in IPL 2025.
Final Word: Can CSK Bounce Back in IPL 2026?
The IPL 2026 CSK retentions show a franchise learning from failure and planning strategically for the future.
By keeping their proven core while investing in exciting youngsters, CSK is building for both immediate impact and long-term success.
Yes, IPL 2025 was disastrous. But CSK has bounced back from setbacks before.
They’ve rebuilt teams, integrated new players, and found winning combinations when nobody expected them to.
The retained players have the talent, experience, and hunger to make CSK competitive again. Ruturaj’s leadership will mature.
Jadeja remains world-class. The young bowlers will develop. And if Dhoni plays even one more season, CSK gets invaluable guidance on and off the field.
Cricket fans know better than to write off Chennai Super Kings.
With smart CSK retentions 2026 and strategic auction purchases, the Yellow Army could very well be challenging for their sixth IPL title next season.
The comeback story writes itself. Now CSK just needs to play the script.
