CSK Retentions 2026: Full List of Predicted Retained Players Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
Check out the complete list of Chennai Super Kings’ retained players for IPL 2026. From MS Dhoni to Ruturaj Gaikwad, here’s how CSK plans to rebuild after a tough 2025 season.
CSK Retentions 2026: Full List of Predicted Retained Players for IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most famous and most successful IPL franchises that managed to win five titles, experienced a miserable IPL 2025 and ended the season last among the teams. Regardless of the situation, the team has decided to prepare for a major restructuring of the squad, and it is really hard to tell now who is going to be the player in the IPL 2026 retention list that is due to be released by November 2025, the same month that the mini-auction will take place.
CSK is going to lose many players but there are already rumors that around 16 top players would still be retained by the franchise who could make a perfect blend of experience and youth for the next season. It is time to see the list of players who might be retained by CSK in IPL 2026.
🟡 CSK Retained Players for IPL 2026 (Predicted)
Player Name Role
MS Dhoni Wicketkeeper (Mentor)
Ruturaj Gaikwad Captain
Ravindra Jadeja All-Rounder
Shivam Dube All-Rounder
Rachin Ravindra All-Rounder
Matheesha Pathirana Bowler
Khaleel Ahmed Bowler
Noor Ahmad Bowler
Anshul Kamboj Bowler
Dewald Brevis Batter
Ayush Mhatre Batter
Urvil Patel Wicketkeeper-Batter
Shaik Rasheed Batter
Vansh Bedi Wicketkeeper
Andre Siddarth All-Rounder
Ramakrishna Ghosh All-Rounder
🔹 Key Retentions and Why They Matter
1. MS Dhoni (Wicketkeeper/Mentor)
The heartbeat of CSK, Dhoni continues to guide the franchise with his unmatched leadership. Though his playing time may be limited, his strategic presence and mentorship are irreplaceable.
Why keep him? CSK’s biggest icon and tactical genius.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain)
Appointed captain in 2024, Ruturaj has been a consistent run-getter and future leader. Despite injuries in 2025, CSK will continue to back him.
Why keep him? Proven batter and long-term captaincy option.
3. Ravindra Jadeja (All-Rounder)
A dependable performer with bat, ball, and in the field, Jadeja remains CSK’s backbone.
Why keep him? Match-winner and senior-most all-rounder.
4. Shivam Dube (All-Rounder)
CSK’s power-hitter and middle-order mainstay, Dube’s ability to clear boundaries makes him vital.
Why keep him? Explosive Indian all-rounder and proven finisher.
5. Rachin Ravindra (All-Rounder)
The New Zealand all-rounder impressed in 2025 with his versatility and composure.
Why keep him? Young, multi-dimensional player with long-term potential.
6. Matheesha Pathirana (Bowler)
The Sri Lankan speedster is CSK’s death-over specialist and a key weapon.
Why keep him? Among IPL’s best young death bowlers.
7. Khaleel Ahmed (Bowler)
Experienced Indian pacer with swing and control in powerplays.
Why keep him? Reliable left-arm option who doesn’t occupy an overseas slot.
8. Noor Ahmad (Bowler)
Afghanistan’s talented left-arm spinner brings variety to the attack.
Why keep him? Economical bowler and wicket-taker in middle overs.
9. Anshul Kamboj (Bowler)
Promising young Indian pacer who adds bench strength.
Why keep him? Homegrown fast-bowling talent for the future.
10. Dewald Brevis (Batter)
The “Baby AB” from South Africa has immense hitting ability and star potential.
Why keep him? Future overseas superstar in the making.
11. Ayush Mhatre (Batter)
One of CSK’s promising young Indian openers who made a mark in IPL 2025.
Why keep him? Cost-effective and fearless top-order batter.
12. Urvil Patel (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
A handy wicketkeeper and aggressive top-order option.
Why keep him? Multi-skilled Indian player ideal for squad balance.
13. Shaik Rasheed (Batter)
A technically sound Indian batter who can stabilize the innings.
Why keep him? Flexible and consistent young player.
14. Vansh Bedi (Wicketkeeper)
An emerging Indian keeper who can develop under Dhoni’s mentorship.
Why keep him? Backup keeper with long-term potential.
15. Andre Siddarth (All-Rounder)
A developing Indian all-rounder capable of contributing in both departments.
Why keep him? Raw talent with good domestic potential.
16. Ramakrishna Ghosh (All-Rounder)
A balanced Indian all-rounder who offers medium pace and lower-order hitting.
Why keep him? Adds experience and depth to the all-rounder pool.
🟢 CSK’s Future Strategy: Blending Experience with Youth
After finishing last in IPL 2025, CSK’s management is keen to rebuild strategically. Their retention choices indicate a balance of veteran leadership (Dhoni, Jadeja), reliable performers (Pathirana, Dube), and rising stars (Mhatre, Brevis, Kamboj).
The franchise will likely focus on buying a foreign top-order batter and additional Indian pacers in the auction to complete the squad.
With smart planning and the mentorship of MS Dhoni, CSK is determined to bounce back in IPL 2026. The Yellow Army will be looking to roar again after a tough season.
FAQs
1. Why is CSK retaining 16 players for IPL 2026?
To build a strong core while leaving space for new signings. The mix provides experience, youth, and flexibility for the auction.
2. Will MS Dhoni play in IPL 2026?
Yes, most likely. Even if he doesn’t play every match, he’ll serve as mentor and squad leader.
3. Who will captain CSK in IPL 2026?
Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as skipper, supported by Dhoni’s experience.
4. Are young players like Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis crucial for CSK?
Yes, they represent the franchise’s long-term investment in youth and power-hitting ability.
5. Does CSK have good balance after these retentions?
Yes, the squad covers batting depth, spin options, pace variety, and all-round balance—though more depth in Indian bowling will help.
