Mohammad Kaif picks two bowlers CSK can target in IPL 2026 mini auction

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With the IPL 2026 mini auction approaching in December, teams have begun fine-tuning their final strategies after completing their retention lists. Among them, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stand at a pivotal point as they look to rebuild after a disappointing season. The five-time champions have retained a compact core and now enter the auction with a sizeable purse and clear areas to address. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has now offered his insight into which bowlers CSK should chase at the upcoming auction, naming two domestic options who can strengthen their attack.

CSK retained 15 players ahead of the IPL 2026 season, including the likes of MS Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmad and others. The franchise opted for major changes, releasing several high-profile players such as Devon Conway and Matheesha Pathirana.

In one of the biggest trade deals before the auction, CSK sent Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals and brought in Sanju Samson, adding both experience and flexibility to their top and middle order. With major shifts in personnel, the upcoming auction becomes crucial for the Dhoni-backed side as they aim to rebuild a competitive XI.

Kaif believes CSK should continue their tradition of backing Indian bowlers—especially those who can thrive on Chennai’s dry, slow surfaces. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he picked Akash Madhawal as a strong contender for the yellow brigade.

“CSK can target Akash Madhawal in the IPL 2026 auction. He has reverse swing, which can prove helpful in Chennai. When the ball is pitched, there is roughness because it is dry. See, there is no Deshpande, Deepak Chahar, they back Indian bowlers,” Kaif said.

Madhawal enjoyed a breakout season with the Mumbai Indians in 2023, taking 14 wickets in eight matches, and has 23 wickets in 17 IPL games overall. Rajasthan had purchased him for INR 1.20 crore in 2025 but released him ahead of the 2026 auction, making him an attractive option for franchises searching for an Indian pacer with swing and death-overs ability.

Also READ: Chennai Super Kings: Full List of CSK Retentions, Releases, Remaining Slots & Purse | IPL 2026 Auction

Kaif also suggested that CSK could look to secure Ravi Bishnoi, who has been released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The leg-spinner has been a steady wicket-taker in the league and could serve as a valuable middle-overs weapon.

“Among spinners, there are not many options. Bishnoi might be cheap, so they might take him,” Kaif added.

Both Madhawal and Bishnoi offer skills tailor-made for Chepauk conditions—reverse swing, control, and attacking spin—which Kaif believes could significantly strengthen CSK’s bowling resources.

The five-time champions enter the auction with a healthy purse of INR 43.40 crore, one of the biggest among all teams. With nine available slots, including four overseas slots, CSK are expected to be aggressive at the auction table.

Given the financial flexibility, CSK could potentially bid high for marquee players while also reinforcing their Indian bowling lineup. Fans may expect the franchise to invest heavily in proven performers as they attempt to assemble a squad capable of bouncing back strongly in IPL 2026.

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