MS Dhoni and 2 top names to finalize CSK retention list ahead of IPL 2026 auction

As per the latest report, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are yet to finalize their retention list ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction. MS Dhoni will soon reach out to top decision-makers to finalize the retention list.

The Indian Premier League 2026 auction is said to be held from December 13-15, and there is a high possibility that the event will be held in India.

Are CSK set to release big names?

A report was recently published in Cricbuzz, which claimed that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are looking to release some big names from the team. He stated that the five-time champions will allow star players to enter the auction with a large purse.

Dough names Deepak HoodaAll-rounder Vijay Shankar, batter Rahul TripathiSam Curran All-rounder, and editorial Devon Conway They were released as part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roster.

However, the chain quickly took to X to share cryptic posts to shut down the reports. CSK shared a post that read: “Don’t worry, we have updated the CV”, and the new CV read: “Nothing is official until you see it here”.

MS Dhoni, Stephen Fleming and Ruturaj Gaikwad to hold a meeting

As per the latest report in Cricbuzz, CSK has not discussed internally regarding the retention and release of players from the team. A high-level meeting will be held between MS Dhoni, Stephen Fleming and Ruturaj Gaikwad to finalize the retention list.

Also, the CSK official said that they are waiting to get updates from the IPL Governing Council regarding the auction dates and submission of the list of retained players.

He further stated that N Srinivasan will have the final say on cricket affairs. Also, Chennai Super Kings are unlikely to make any changes to their coaching staff as Srinivasan “doesn’t like chopping and changing, preferring stability”.

“Look, we haven’t discussed it internally yet,” a CSK official told RevSportz. “MS has just returned from the US. Fleming is in New Zealand, and the Indian Premier League has not even set a date to submit the list of retained players. Fleming, MS and Ruturaj will hold a meeting to draw up the list. It will then be taken to Mr Srinivasan for his approval.”

There are a few left-arm spinners, but there is a shortage of off-spinners – CSK official

Ravichandran Ashwin He has already announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League, adding INR 9.75 crore to his portfolio. However, Chennai Super Kings will find it difficult to replace the veteran player and may look at overseas options.

“There are a few left-arm spinners, but spinners are in short supply,” the official said. “We have done our scouting at TNPL and junior level. There are a few players who are running outside the rotation, but getting that quality is very difficult. In a small auction, you are unlikely to get the highest quality. Franchises will not release the best Indian players.”

It is worth noting that Chennai Super Kings finished their 2025 Indian Premier League campaign in tenth place on the points table. They won just four games and lost 10 on the season and had a net earned run average of -0.647. This was the first time that Chennai Super Kings finished bottom of the points table.

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