The countdown has begun and all ten franchises are already deep in discussion – who stays, who goes, and who could spark a turnaround next season. For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the situation is different this time. Very different.
The five-time champions, known for their calmness and consistency, had a season to forget in IPL 2025. They finished dead last. Yes, you read that right – 10th place. For a side that built its legacy on dominance and discipline, it was a bitter pill to swallow.
As IPL 2026 approaches, a shake-up feels inevitable. The Super Kings need to rebuild, refresh, and reimagine this time around in order to make a bid for the title.
Here are five players Chennai Super Kings could release ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction.
1. Ravindra Jadeja
This one will sting. Ravindra Jadeja and CSK and that’s been a bond built over years of sweat, success, and silverware. But reports suggest a massive twist — a potential trade deal that could send Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals, with Sanju Samson heading the other way.
If this happens, it would mark the end of an era. Jadeja has been the face of CSK’s middle order and a key weapon with the ball. His fielding alone could change matches. But over the past two seasons, something hasn’t clicked. The spark between Jadeja and the franchise seems to have dimmed.
A move to Rajasthan might reignite his form, while CSK could finally address their lack of a strong top-order leader. Still, saying goodbye to Sir Jadeja would be emotional — he’s not just a player; he has been a part of CSK’s DNA.
2. Sam Curran
Sam Curran arrived with a heavy price tag and even heavier expectations. The English all-rounder was once CSK’s golden boy with full of potential. But IPL 2025 told a different story.
Curran struggled to find rhythm with both bat and ball and failed to make a name for himself. The consistency that made him a T20 star seemed to vanish. According to whispers, he too could be part of the same trade package involving Jadeja and Samson.
If that happens, CSK will free up a massive chunk of their budget. It is a business move as much as a cricketing one. And while Curran’s talent is undeniable, CSK might just feel they need fresh energy, players who fit their new direction.
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3. Rahul Tripathi
Every season brings a few heartbreaks, and Rahul Tripathi’s story is one of them. Bought for ₹3.4 crore, CSK hoped he would stabilize the middle order with his quick scoring and fearless approach. But the numbers tell a different tale, just 55 runs in five matches.
Tripathi never really looked settled in yellow. The intent was there, but the timing wasn’t. In a side that demands consistency, he couldn’t deliver the spark.
Releasing him would be tough, but it makes sense. CSK may want to give opportunities to younger Indian batters who can bring fresh hunger and flair to their lineup.
4. Vijay Shankar
Vijay Shankar’s inclusion in the CSK squad raised eyebrows when it happened, and his performances didn’t do much to silence critics. Bought for ₹1.2 crore, the 34-year-old managed to get a few chances but failed to leave a mark.
CSK has always valued experience, but this time they might have to look beyond it. The franchise is clearly in a rebuilding phase, and with youth likely to take priority, Shankar’s chances of staying look slim.
He is a hardworking cricketer, no doubt, but Chennai needs players who can define the next decade, not the past one.
5. Shreyas Gopal
You almost forget he was in the squad and that says it all. Bought for ₹30 lakh, Shreyas Gopal didn’t play a single match for CSK in IPL 2025. With spinners like Jadeja, Moeen Ali, and Santner already in the mix, there was simply no room for him.
Heading into IPL 2026, the Super Kings are likely to look for a wrist-spinner who can also chip in with the bat or field dynamically, the kind of versatility Gopal doesn’t bring anymore. It’s unfortunate, but his release seems certain.
