IPL 2026: CSK Should Move On From MS Dhoni and Target These Three Players Ahead of the Auction

The 2026 auction fast approaching marks a new era about to start in the Indian Premier League for the Chennai Super Kings. For nearly 20 years, MS Dhoni has been the core and soul of the franchise-a calm leader who has taken the team to glory five times in the IPL.

Now, with ailing knees and advancing years being factors, the man that everyone calls 'Sir' may finally choose to hang up his boots. If ever CSK sits him and bids him goodbye before the IPL 2026, the scenario that is created will cease to be an end of an era, yet will herald a new application of fresh leadership-a successor strong enough to take the team legacy forward.

The decision to replace Dhoni is going to be one of the hardest that CSK have ever faced. They will look for people who play their best cricket in crucial moments and uphold the value system of discipline and awareness on the field.

Here are three players that CSK could possibly vie for in the IPL 2026 auction contest that carries the huge vacuum left by Dhoni:

3. Narayan Jagadeesan

Narayan Jagadeesan could be a strong contender to make a comeback to the Chennai Super Kings lineup in 2026. Having already been part of the CSK setup earlier, he is familiar with the franchise’s environment and expectations.

Over the last few domestic seasons, the Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter has been in exceptional form. In First-Class cricket, Jagadeesan has scored 3,760 runs at an average of 50.13, while in List A matches, he has amassed 2,728 runs with nine centuries, including a record-breaking 277.

Recently earning a call-up to India’s Test squad, Jagadeesan’s consistency and wicketkeeping skills make him a promising replacement. His flexibility to bat anywhere in the top or middle order adds further value to the CSK setup.

2. Quinton de Kock

If CSK decides to opt for international experience, Quinton de Kock could be the ideal choice. The South African wicketkeeper-batter brings a wealth of T20 experience and proven success in the IPL.

In 115 IPL matches, de Kock has scored 3,309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike rate of 134.02, including two centuries and 24 half-centuries. With over 300 fours and 130 sixes, he’s been one of the most aggressive openers in the tournament’s history.

Across global T20s, de Kock has accumulated 11,422 runs in 410 matches at a strike rate of 137.78. Having previously won IPL titles with the Mumbai Indians, his dual role as an opener and wicketkeeper, combined with his leadership experience, makes him a fitting successor to Dhoni in CSK’s lineup.

1. Glenn Phillips

New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Glenn Phillips offers an intriguing prospect for Chennai since all his talents are truly explosive; this power-hitter could provide fresh impetus to CSK's middle order in terms of athleticism.

Phillips has scored 1,929 runs at a strike rate of 140.59 in 83 T20 Internationals, including 2 centuries and 10 half-centuries. He has scored 6,810 runs in 270 T20 matches globally, averaging 31.82 with a strike rate of 140.29.

Not much IPL experience is something he doesn't have, but having played in the MLC, CPL, and The Hundred, he is considered a valuable global T20 player. In addition to batting, his handy off-spin will need to be worked on, and his fielding is electrifying - that is to say, the complete package, and one whom CSK can count on to keep on with their legacy of multi-skilled players.

The Road Ahead for CSK

Whatever CSK chooses - retaining or releasing Dhoni - the 2026 auction will mark a defining chapter in their journey. The franchise will try to blend experience with youthful energy to make the transition smooth for the post-Dhoni Era, one that promises to continue gliding the yellow flag high.