Chennai Super Kings (CSK)Known for his ‘Dad’s Army’ philosophy of tactical continuity and veteran expertise, the side find themselves in an unprecedented phase of squad overhaul after a disappointing performance. Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Season where they finished bottom.
Chennai Super Kings: Search for sixth title in IPL 2026 mini-auction
The franchise has since engaged in blockbuster trades, such as parting ways with foundational players. Ravindra Jadeja And Sam Curranand strategically releasing high-cost foreign talents such as Mathisha PathiranaThis leaves CSK with a huge sum of Rs 43,40 crore and the second largest purse on the auction table,
Under the leadership of Ruturaj GaikwadThe focus now is on fully leveraging this financial strength to acquire high-impact, multi-utility players who complement their middle-order power, death-bowling pace and fit the key voids in the Indian spin department. The IPL 2026 mini-auction is not just about filling slots; It is about finding a new generation of reliable match winners who can restore the dominance of ‘Whistle Podu’ and deliver a historic sixth title.
Top 5 targeted players of CSK in IPL 2026 mini-auction
1. Cameron Green (Foreign pace-bowling all-rounder)
cameron green This is expected to be CSK’s absolute top priority and the central focus of their auction strategy. The Australian all-rounder perfectly fills the void left by key departures, offering a rare and powerful combination of explosive, right-handed batting (with an IPL strike rate over 153) and genuine fast-medium pace bowling. Green is a long-term investment who can contribute at multiple stages: batting in the middle order, providing vital four-over pace, and being an exceptional fielder. CSK are ready to engage in a fierce bidding war to secure this coveted multi-utility talent, knowing that his acquisition instantly changes the balance of their team.
2. Liam Livingstone (foreign batting all-rounder)
With the need for firepower in the middle order to finish the innings, liam livingstone emerges as an ideal goal. The England all-rounder, released by RCB, is renowned for his explosive power-hitting (IPL strike rate over 158) that can single-handedly change the course of a match, a finishing ability that CSK desperately lacked in 2025. In addition to his batting ability, Livingstone offers useful leg-spin and off-spin variations, providing captain Gaikwad with flexible, low-risk bowling options, especially on the turning Chepauk pitch. His high-impact, dual skill set makes him a perfect fit for CSK’s strategic preference for versatile overseas players.
Also read: IPL 2026: Robin Uthappa reveals the 2 foreign players CSK should target in the mini-auction
3. Venkatesh Iyer (Indian batting all-rounder)
Venkatesh IyerReleased by KKR, the primary Indian all-rounder is aiming to replace the high-utility left-handed batsman lost in the recent trades. Iyer’s ability to open the batting aggressively (which he has done 22 times in the IPL) or strengthen the middle order provides the much-needed left-right balance. Although his bowling contributions have declined, his medium pace threat and his high potential as a match-winner remain important. CSK need a strong Indian core, and acquiring Iyer, even with a high base price of ₹2 crore, would immediately add a dynamic, proven homegrown talent to the top half of their batting line-up.
4. Ravi Bishnoi (Indian leg spinner)
Following the business of Ravindra Jadeja and retirement of Ravichandran AshwinSecuring a high-quality, wicket-taking Indian spinner for CSK’s home games in Chepauk is non-negotiable. Ravi BishnoiIssued by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)Fits this requirement perfectly. Despite the 2025 season being a bit expensive, his overall track record includes 72 wickets in 77 matches and a highly aggressive, skiddy style of leg-spin that is ideal for exploiting turning tracks. CSK will look at the potential of partnering with them Noor Ahmed And provides the necessary control and striking ability in the middle overs that his bowling template requires.
5. Prithvi Shaw (Indian batsman)
Hope to target CSK Prithvi Shaw Adding domestic explosiveness and aggression to the top order. Issued by Delhi Capitals (DC)Shaw is a high-risk, high-reward opening batsman known for his explosive starts in the powerplay. His acquisition allows Gaikwad to play his natural anchor role, giving Shaw the freedom to dominate the first six overs. Securing Shaw, potentially at a low price given his recent inconsistency, would provide a dynamic Indian opening batsman who can compensate for the high-impact overseas players they may have to drop, thus strengthening the team’s domestic batting core.
Also read: IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin names uncapped young players CSK should target in mini-auction