The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for one of their biggest team revamps in franchise history following a disastrous IPL 2025 season that ended with them bottom of the table – their worst performance ever. Injuries, patchy form, and an ageing core laid bare glaring loopholes, compelling the management to review their approach to the upcoming IPL 2026 mega auction.
Major Players Poised to be Released
There are reports that a few of the older players might not be in CSK’s scheme of things going ahead, as the team aims to create purse space and introduce new talent.
Mukesh Choudhary
Though Mukesh has given hints of promise in earlier seasons, less game time in 2025 and failure to break through might see him miss out. CSK should look for a more consistent domestic pacer with established credentials.
Vijay Shankar
Shankar’s 118 runs in six games were not sufficient to confirm his position as a finisher. His unreliability with the bat during pressure situations harmed CSK in deciding matches. With a number of young all-rounders present in the domestic league, the administration might seek a more destructive alternative during the death overs.
Devon Conway
Once a reliable opener, Conway faced injury issues and inconsistent form, managing just 156 runs in six games. For his Rs 6.25 crore price, CSK may look for an opener who can offer aggressive starts as well as stability.
Ravichandran Ashwin
Acquired for Rs 9.75 crore, Ashwin took only seven wickets in nine games at an economy of 9.13. There are reports that he can be released, with the veteran also set to resign from his academy position to steer clear of a possible conflict of interest.
As the IPL 2026 Trade Window finally opens, everyone’s eyes will be on CSK to find out how energetically they rebuild. Will the franchise get back to its glory days with a new line-up, or will the shake-up take longer than anticipated to bear fruit? One thing is for sure – change is on its way to the ‘Yellow Army.’
