Chennai Super Kings (CSK) completely changed its long-standing ‘experience-first’ philosophy ipl 2026 At the auction, 2025 opted for a youth-centric rebuild after a disappointing campaign that saw them finish bottom of the table. Armed with the second-largest purse of ₹43.40 crore, CSK stunned fans and experts alike by spending more than sixty percent of their budget on two uncapped Indian players. Now that the team is taking shape, the biggest question is what CSK’s best XI should look like. Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin He chose his favorite CSK XI in response to the franchise’s fan survey on social media.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s CSK playing eleven for IPL 2026
Solid opening pair to set the tone
Ashwin favored a fresh but balanced opening combination with the young pair Ayush Mhatre with sanju samsonNotably, Samson was signed by CSK through the trading window ahead of the auction, bringing both experience and explosiveness at the top, Ayush’s inclusion reflects CSK’s newfound confidence in the fearless young batsman, while Samson’s ability to dominate the powerplay and keep wickets provides tactical flexibility,
powerhouse middle order
The backbone of Ashwin’s eleven is in the middle order under the leadership of the captain. Ruturaj GaikwadAshwin sees Gaikwad as an ideal anchor who can change gears when required, Shivam DubeyWhereas, its presence adds tremendous firepower against spin dewald brevis Provides dynamism and innovation especially in the middle overs. Together, this trio blends consistency with aggression – something that CSK lacked last season.
MS Dhoni factor remains important
Even in the new era CSK, ms dhoni Remains the centerpiece of the team’s balance. Ashwin was chosen uncapped all-rounder Prashant Veer With Dhoni, highlighting a guru-disciple dynamic. Veer’s inclusion has given their auction a boost, while Dhoni’s calm presence behind the stumps and in difficult moments remains invaluable, especially for a young team dealing with high-pressure situations.
Dynamic bowling combinations provide variety
Ashwin’s bowling attack focuses on adaptability to different conditions. he chose either Akil Hossein Or matt henry Based on match-up, supported by Khalil AhmedThe left-arm pace, the death over expertise of Nathan Ellis, and Noor AhmedThreatening to twist the wrist. This combination provides pace, swing, variation and spin, covering all phases of a T20 innings.
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Influential players in Ashwin’s setup
For the role of impact player, Ashwin suggested flexible options like Anshul. Karthik Sharma, Shreyas GopalOr Sarfaraz, depending on circumstances and opposition. This reinforces CSK’s intention to remain tactically agile rather than locking into rigid combinations.
₹14.20 crore No place for newbie
The biggest mistake from Ashwin’s eleven is Karthik. The 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman was bought for a whopping price of ₹14.20 crore, making him the joint-most expensive uncapped player in IPL history along with Prashant. Despite the massive investment, Ashwin prefers to ease Karthik into the tournament rather than inserting him straight into the starting XI. The call underlines a clear message: price tags will not dictate selections in CSK’s new-look setup, with balance and readiness given priority over hype.
Ashwin’s CSK playing XI for IPL 2026: Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Shivam Dubey, Dewald Brewis, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni, Akeal Hosein/Matt Henry, Khalil Ahmed, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmed.
Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin accused of revealing CSK’s IPL 2026 auction plans; breaks his silence
