The 2025 season was one to forget for Chennai Super Kings, with the team finishing at the bottom of the points table. As fans look ahead to the next edition, the spotlight is on the CSK rebuild IPL 2025 and how the franchise reshapes its squad for a stronger comeback in IPL 2026.
With retention deadlines looming and the mega auction on the horizon, speculation around players released by CSK and auction strategy has already begun. Hence, in this article we will go over who could be the CSK Released Players ahead of the mini auction of 2025.
Who can be CSK released players?
After a disappointing campaign, several underperforming names are expected to be released as CSK recalibrates its squad. Based on form, impact, and team balance, here’s a look at the probable CSK release list 2025:
Rahul Tripathi – There was a lot of buzz around the name of Tripathi when he was bought in the auction. After all, he was the perfect player, fitting the persona that CSK generally targets.
But just after 5 games that saw him score 55 runs, he might already be in the list of players CSK will release ahead of 2025 mini-auction. It’s clear that Tripathi struggled to adapt to CSK’s setup and the limited contributions may see him released.
Vijay Shankar – Another sensational failure of the season for CSK was the acquisition of Shankar. And he too might be on the list of players released by the team ahead of the auctions. His 7 appearances yielded 118 runs with no standout performance. With younger Indian middle-order options available, Shankar is likely to face the axe.
Deepak Hooda – Once one of the prominent players of Indian cricket team, Hooda turned out to be a major disappointment, scoring just 31 runs in 7 games. He failed to provide the middle-order solidity CSK hoped for.
Rachin Ravindra – Despite a promising start to his career in yellow, Ravindra couldn’t cement his place. Hence, looking at his performance from the last season, his name becomes one of the players CSK can release.
In the 8 matches he played in the last season, Rachin managed 191 runs with just one fifty. Given the team’s batting surplus, he could be let go.
Mukesh Choudhary – 2023 was the breakthrough season for Choudhary. He certainly impressed the management, and was retained in 2025. But Injuries and inconsistencies have hampered his impact. Last season he played just 2 games, and picked up only 1 wicket at an economy of 12. With bowling reinforcements needed, his place looks uncertain.
Jamie Overton – In 3 games, Overton scored just 15 runs and bowled without much success. Which might be the reason behind his departure from the five-time champions’ squad. As CSK seeks a proven overseas all-rounder, Overton is certainly not in their plan.
Retained Core: Building Blocks for the Future
Despite the disappointing 2025 season, CSK still has a solid core to build upon. The franchise is known for loyalty and long-term planning, and their strategy for IPL 2026 will likely revolve around these names:
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Batter) – The captain and batting mainstay with 2502 runs in 70 innings, including a highest score of 108. His growth as a leader is central to the rebuild.
Ravindra Jadeja (Allrounder) – A CSK veteran with 254 IPL matches, 3,260 runs at a strike rate of 130.25, and 170 wickets. His all-round value is irreplaceable.
Shivam Dube (Allrounder) – A hard-hitting middle-order batter with 1460 runs for CSK across 4 seasons, striking at over 150. A key match-winner.
Aayush Mhatre– A youngster who impressed with fearless batting in 2025, showing signs of becoming a long-term asset.
Dewald Brevis (Batter) – Signed in 2025, Brevis has 1787 T20 runs with a top score of 162. Though he is yet to produce big IPL numbers, CSK is investing in his potential.
Khaleel Ahmed (Bowler) – A left-arm pacer with consistent spells, including 15 wickets last season, making him a reliable part of CSK’s bowling attack.
Noor Ahmad (Bowler) – A revelation in 2025, bagging 24 wickets last season and thriving in spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk.
Matheesha Pathirana (Bowler) – The Sri Lankan pacer has already picked up 47 wickets in 32 matches, and his slinging action makes him a lethal death-bowling option.
Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026?
Dhoni’s presence will continue to shape the squad, though his playing role depends on fitness. As he said, a final decision will come in December 2025. If he plays, CSK will have their talisman one last time; if not, his mentorship will remain invaluable. Urvil Patel, too, will be considered based on combinations and squad balance.
Will Devon Conway play for CSK in 2026?
One player fans were concerned about is Devon Conway, who has been a consistent performer for CSK. His overall numbers are impressive: 1081 runs in 28 innings, with 11 half-centuries, a highest score of 92, and a strike rate of 147.4. In IPL 2025, he managed 156 runs in 6 matches, including 2 fifties, showing that he can still be a match-winner. Conway is expected to be persisted with, especially given his experience and ability to anchor innings in big matches.
What can be CSK Auction Strategy for mini auction?
The CSK auction strategy for IPL 2026 will focus on strengthening weak links, particularly in the all-rounder and pace departments. With Overton likely to be released, CSK will eye a world-class overseas pace-bowling all-rounder. Names like Cameron Green and Jason Holder could be high on their radar.
CSK’s blueprint remains the same: a balance of youth and experience, batting depth, spin options, and trusted death bowlers. However, with the mega auction ahead, expect them to be more aggressive than usual in targeting overseas players who can make an immediate impact.
R. Ashwin Retires After IPL 2025
One of the biggest developments in CSK’s 2025 season was the presence of R. Ashwin, who rejoined the franchise for what turned out to be his final IPL campaign. After a poor season, both personally and for the team, Ashwin announced his retirement from the IPL. He stated his desire to explore opportunities in global T20 leagues, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian and CSK cricket history.
Ashwin’s retirement closes the door on one of CSK’s most experienced campaigners. Across his IPL career, he not only delivered with the ball but also served as a tactical asset. His departure means CSK will need to lean even more on Noor Ahmad and Jadeja in the spin department heading into 2026.
What Fans Can Expect in IPL 2026
The 2026 season promises to be a blend of nostalgia and renewal for CSK. Fans can expect:
Dhoni’s decision: Will IPL 2026 be his last season? His December announcement will shape the emotional tone of the season.
Youthful energy: With stars like Brevis, Aayush, and Urvil stepping up, the next generation of Super Kings is ready to shine.
Strategic leadership: With N. Srinivasan back in an advisory role and Ruturaj maturing as captain, CSK will enter the season with renewed focus.
Auction surprises: The hunt for a marquee all-rounder could redefine CSK’s balance.
CSK’s future in auction
The CSK rebuild IPL 2025 is more than just a tactical reshuffle—it’s about setting the stage for a new era while still honouring the legacy of Dhoni and the veterans who defined the franchise. With underperformers like Ravindra, Hooda, and Overton likely to be released, and with a solid young core backed by the likes of Ruturaj, Jadeja, Dube, and Pathirana, CSK’s plans for IPL 2026 look promising.
Whether it’s Dhoni’s final season, the closing of Ashwin’s chapter, or the emergence of the next generation, fans can rest assured that the Super Kings will leave no stone unturned in their quest to bounce back. IPL 2026 isn’t just another season—it could be the beginning of CSK’s next golden chapter.
