CSK’s Strongest Playing XI for IPL 2026: Youth-Focused Squad Marks a New Era

Overall, 369 players were shortlisted when the 2026 IPL auction came to a close. Likewise, 77 slots were filled at the behest of different franchises. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with ₹43.4 crore at their disposal, came into the auction with the second-highest purse among all the lot. This leaves everyone wondering, as many people were expecting star names to be in their chase, if the five-time champions' new, rather uncapped Indian talent strategy will be successful.

In a sense, under transition circumstances, CSK is not looking at its elaborate history of preferring experienced heads on board. Instead, they now show a path where winning hearts vis-à-vis purchasing capabilities matters.

CSK’s Auction Approach: Youth First, Experience Later

CSK’s intent was clear early on. They aggressively pursued uncapped players, securing Uttar Pradesh all-rounder Prashant Veer and Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma for ₹14.2 crore each—huge bids for first-time IPL entrants. The franchise’s confidence in the duo indicates their importance in CSK’s future plans.

Once the young core was secured, CSK balanced the squad with experienced international signings:

Matt Henry – ₹2 crore

Akeal Hosein – ₹2 crore

Matthew Short – ₹1.5 crore

Rahul Chahar – ₹5.2 crore

Sarfaraz Khan – ₹75 lakh

Aman Khan – ₹40 lakh

Zak Foulkes – ₹75 lakh

These picks helped CSK create a well-rounded squad with depth in both batting and bowling.

Projected CSK Playing XI for IPL 2026

CSK made a major pre-auction move, trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Sanju Samson, who is now expected to open the innings.

Here’s a look at the strongest possible lineup:

1. Ayush Mhatre — Opener

The young left-hander impressed last season and is likely to retain his position at the top.

2. Sanju Samson — Opener

A high-profile trade acquisition, Samson’s attacking style gives CSK a strong start in the powerplay.

3. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)

Moving back to his preferred No. 3 role, the CSK skipper remains the backbone of the batting order.

4. Dewald Brevis

The South African youngster brings explosiveness and stability at No. 4.

5. Shivam Dube

Known for his firepower against spin, Dube will be a key asset in the middle overs.

6. Prashant Veer

The ₹14.2 crore uncapped all-rounder is expected to fill the Jadeja-like role with both bat and left-arm spin.

7. MS Dhoni (WK)

Questions remain over Dhoni’s fitness for the full season. If unavailable, Kartik Sharma—one of CSK’s big uncapped investments—will take the gloves.

8. Matt Henry

A reliable new-ball pacer, Henry adds international experience to the attack.

9. Noor Ahmad

The young Afghan spinner strengthens CSK’s middle-overs bowling.

10. Khaleel Ahmed

A left-arm pace option capable of swinging the ball early and delivering in the death overs.

11. Nathan Ellis

A proven T20 specialist with strong variations and death-overs expertise.

Impact Player Options

Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, and Sarfaraz Khan provide match-up flexibility depending on conditions and game situations.

CSK’s Strongest Playing XI for IPL 2026 (Final List)

Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni (WK), Matt Henry, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Nathan Ellis