IPL 2026 Auction: CSK's probable middle order, spin and pace targets

Published - 14 Dec 2025, 18:22 IST | Updated - 14 Dec 2025, 18:22 IST

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) endured one of their poorest campaigns in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, finishing at the bottom of the points table for the first time in the tournament’s history. The five-time champions will be eager to bounce back strongly in the upcoming season and rebuild a squad capable of challenging for the title once again.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction scheduled for December 16, CSK have already made a major move by trading in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR). With Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ayush Mhatre, Samson, and Urvil Patel forming the top order, CSK appear well settled at the top. However, other departments still require strengthening to create a well-balanced and competitive unit.

CSK currently have Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube in the middle order, but the lack of experience remains a concern. To address this, the franchise could target proven overseas all-rounders such as Liam Livingstone and Michael Bracewell in the mini-auction.

Livingstone has scored over 1,000 IPL runs while representing multiple franchises and is known for his explosive power-hitting, which would complement Brevis perfectly. Meanwhile, Bracewell, who featured briefly for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2023, has since gained significant international experience. He could fill the void left by Ravindra Jadeja, who was traded to RR along with Sam Curran, offering balance with both bat and ball.