CSK Team comparison: IPL 2025 vs IPL 2026 Squad breakdown

Published - 21 Dec 2025, 11:22 IST | Updated - 21 Dec 2025, 11:22 IST

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction concluded a few days ago, and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) emerged with a noticeably refreshed and forward-looking squad. After releasing several players ahead of the auction, the five-time champions rebuilt strategically, aiming to recover from a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign in which they finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in franchise history.

Ahead of IPL 2025, CSK assembled what appeared to be a strong and experienced squad through the mega-auction, retaining a few core players while adding proven names. The franchise brought in players such as Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, Shreyas Gopal, Deepak Hooda, Devon Conway, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Ravichandran Ashwin, Sam Curran, Shaik Rasheed, and Jamie Overton, among others.

On paper, the squad looked formidable. However, performances on the field failed to match expectations. A majority of players struggled to rediscover form despite strong track records in previous seasons. The lack of consistency and impact proved costly, resulting in CSK’s underwhelming 2025 campaign. Among the few bright spots were Noor Ahmad, Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis, who delivered standout performances, while several experienced campaigners were unable to make a significant contribution.

In contrast, CSK’s approach for IPL 2026 signals a clear shift in philosophy. The franchise has opted to invest heavily in youth and long-term potential. Promising Indian talents such as Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Aman Khan were added to the squad, reflecting a renewed focus on building a younger core. Alongside them, CSK secured quality overseas options including Matthew Short, Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry, and Zak Foulkes, while also making a notable acquisition in leg-spinner Rahul Chahar.

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Comparing the two squads, the 2026 line-up appears more youthful and dynamic. Unlike the experience-heavy setup of 2025, CSK now seem intent on evolving their playing style and backing young players to deliver impactful performances. With this refreshed approach, the franchise will be hopeful that the blend of youth and select experience can reignite their title challenge and push them toward a historic sixth IPL trophy.

MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brewis, Shivam Dube, Urvil Patel, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Khaleel Ahmed, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Mukesh Choudhary, Jamie Overton, Gurjapneet Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Akeal Hosein, Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Matthew Short, Aman Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Matt Henry, Rahul Chahar, Zak Foulkes

MI Team comparison: IPL 2025 vs IPL 2026 Squad breakdown