East India And Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Mohit Sharma The franchise unveiled its all-time playing XI ahead of the IPL 2026 season, sparking discussion among fans with some notable selections and omissions. The veteran seamer shared his picks during a chat on Cricbuzz, putting together a star-studded lineup dominated by players who have played key roles in CSK’s most successful years.
Interestingly, Mohit decided to keep the former CSK opener out Murali VijayDespite the batsman’s strong record for the franchise. Vijay scored 1708 runs in 70 innings for Chennai and was part of many memorable campaigns, but Mohit opted for a different opening combination to start his all-time team.
Mohit Sharma’s all time CSK playing eleven
a solid opening pair
Mohit chose former Australian legend michael hussey and current csk captain Ruturaj Gaikwad As their opening pair. Hussey was one of the most reliable batsmen in the early years of the franchise and played 50 matches for CSK, scoring 1768 runs, which included 13 half-centuries and one century. Known for his calm presence and consistency, Hussey played a vital role in strengthening the top order during Chennai’s dominant phase.
Joining him at the top is Gaikwad, who has been one of the modern pillars of the franchise. Since making his debut in 2020, the brilliant right-handed batsman has become a central figure in CSK’s batting lineup. Gaikwad leads the team in the current era, scoring 2502 runs in 70 innings for the team, which includes 20 fifties and two centuries.
Star power in the middle order
Mohit chose former South African captain at number three. Faf du Plessis, Who played an important role in many successful campaigns for Chennai. Du Plessis scored 2721 runs for the franchise and played a key role in two title-winning seasons with his aggressive but composed batting style.
The middle order continues with the CSK stalwarts Suresh RainaConsidered one of the greatest players in franchise history. Raina remains CSK’s second-highest run-scorer with 4687 runs in 171 innings and was a key figure in their dominance in several IPL seasons.
Former Indian batsman Ambati Rayudu Selected at number five. Rayudu played a key role in Chennai’s success during his tenure with the franchise, scoring 1932 runs in 80 innings and helping the team clinch three IPL titles.
MS Dhoni leads a powerful all-round core
No CSK lineup would be complete without this ms dhoniAnd Mohit appointed the legendary wicketkeeper as the captain of his all-time XI. Under Dhoni’s leadership, Chennai Super Kings won five IPL titles and established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in the league. Dhoni also remains the franchise’s leading run-scorer with 4865 runs in 215 innings, including 22 half-centuries.
The overall strength of the side begins Ravindra Jadeja At number seven. Jadeja played 186 matches for CSK, contributing 2198 runs and taking 143 wickets, while providing exceptional fielding and balance to the team.
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Bowling attack full of match winners
Mohit has included experienced off-spinner in the bowling department. Ravichandran AshwinWho took 97 wickets in 106 matches during his time with the Super Kings.
West Indies all-rounder dwayne bravo Also made cuts. Bravo was one of the most influential players in CSK’s history, scoring 1004 runs and taking 140 wickets in 116 matches, while helping the franchise win three IPL titles.
Former South African all-rounder albie morkel Was placed at number ten. Morkel was known for his explosive hitting and useful medium pace, scoring 827 runs and taking 76 wickets in 78 matches for Chennai. The lineup is completed by the swing specialist Deepak ChaharWho represented CSK between 2018 and 2024 and took 76 wickets in 76 innings with his new ball talent.
Mohit Sharma’s all-time CSK XI: Michael Hussey, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (captain/wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Dwayne Bravo, Albie Morkel, Deepak Chahar.
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