Chennai Super Kings Reveal IPL 2026 Retention List: Big Changes, Jadeja and Curran Released
CSK retain Dhoni and Gaikwad but release key stars ahead of IPL 2026 season.
Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have revealed their official player retention list for the 2026 season, confirming the franchise’s biggest overhaul in years. After an inconsistent 2025 campaign, CSK appear focused on rejuvenating their core team while maintaining a mix of young talent and experienced leadership under captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and mentor MS Dhoni.
In one of the most notable decisions, star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been traded out, marking the end of a long and successful chapter with the franchise. England’s Sam Curran has also been moved out via trade, signaling a shift toward a more adaptable and budget-friendly squad structure. Alongside them, Matheesha Pathirana, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Deepak Hooda are among those released as the team rebuilds for a fresh era.
The retained list features a balanced combination of seasoned players and promising talent. Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as captain, joined by the ever-reliable MS Dhoni, dynamic all-rounder Shivam Dube, and new trade-in Sanju Samson. Dewald Brevis, Noor Ahmad, and Jamie Overton strengthen CSK’s overseas core, while Indian pacers Khaleel Ahmed and Mukesh Choudhary add depth to the bowling attack. The franchise has also retained young domestic prospects Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, and Ramakrishna Ghosh to build for the long term.
Also Read: IPL Trade Cleared: Sanju Samson to CSK, Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals
CSK’s current purse balance after retentions leaves enough room for strategic additions during the upcoming auction. Management sources indicate that the team’s focus will be on securing a premier fast bowler, a power-hitting finisher, and a backup wicketkeeper to complete the lineup. Team insiders also hint that Dhoni’s on-field involvement may be limited, but his mentoring role remains pivotal in shaping the squad’s next generation.
The Chennai Super Kings will aim to use the IPL 2026 auction to address key gaps and reestablish their consistency after missing the playoffs last season. Under new leadership and a redefined structure, the franchise hopes to rediscover the dominance that once made them the league’s most successful and admired team.
Also Read: Rajasthan Royals’ Last-Minute Conditions Stop Sanju Samson’s Trade to Delhi Capitals
