TL;DR
- Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2026 mini auction with a large budget after player changes.
- CSK has ₹43.40 crore for the auction, the second-largest purse among franchises.
- Key players Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni are retained; Sanju Samson acquired for ₹18 crore.
- Significant departures include Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, traded to Rajasthan Royals.
The Chennai Super Kings are entering the IPL 2026 mini auction with a significantly altered appearance. Following a challenging 2025 campaign that concluded with them in last place, the organization has embarked on a reconstruction period.
The team's decisions regarding player retention and trade actions clearly indicate a strategy to alter the team's foundation, create financial flexibility, and prepare for the upcoming season.
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Having let go of several experienced players and finalizing one significant trade, CSK now possesses one of the most substantial budgets heading into the auction. They intend to leverage this advantageous situation shrewdly as they gear up for a new beginning.
CSK IPL 2026 auction: Remaining funds for the mini auction
CSK is set to participate in the IPL 2026 mini auction holding ₹43.40 crore, which is the second-largest amount of funds available to any franchise, based on recent retention and trade information.
CSK remaining purse: ₹43.40 crore
More: IPL 2026 released players list: All players not retained by teams before IPL 2026 mini auction
The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led squad possesses substantial flexibility to address crucial areas. Several key players, instrumental to their 2026 strategy, have been retained by the team.
The team's acquisition of Sanju Samson for ₹18 crore marked a significant transaction during the retention period. Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni will remain with the squad, ensuring continuity in leadership.
Ten players were let go by the team before the 2026 mini auction. Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran were the most significant departures, with both being traded to Rajasthan Royals.
Pathirana's release also freed up ₹13 crore. These departures significantly reduced CSK's payroll, providing them with the necessary room to make changes.
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