CSK IPL 2026: A New Era Begins with Sanju Samson and Record Uncapped Buys
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) entered the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi with a clear mission: build a squad for the future while honoring the legacy of their iconic core. With a remaining purse of 43.4 crore; the franchise made headlines by securing star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson via a historic trade and shattering records for uncapped players.
The Blockbuster Trade: Sanju Samson Joins the Yellow Army
In one of the most significant moves in IPL history; CSK traded franchise legend Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals to bring in Sanju Samson. This trade signals a major shift in CSK’s leadership and top-order strategy. Samson; an explosive batter and experienced captain; is expected to provide long-term stability as the team prepares for life beyond MS Dhoni.
Record-Breaking Auction Highlights
CSK’s auction strategy focused heavily on domestic talent; spending nearly 70% of their budget on two uncapped Indian stars:
- Prashant Veer: Signed for 14.2 crore; making him the joint-most expensive uncapped player.
- Kartik Sharma: Also signed for 14.2 crore; adding significant power-hitting depth.
- Akeal Hosein: Secured at 2 crore to bolster the spin department.
- Matt Henry: Added for 2 crore to provide veteran pace experience.
Retained Players and the Dhoni Factor
Despite the massive changes; the heartbeat of the team remains. MS Dhoni was retained for 4 crore under the uncapped player rule; continuing his role as a mentor and finisher. Ruturaj Gaikwad continues as captain; supported by a retained core including Shivam Dube; Noor Ahmad; and Khaleel Ahmed.
Full CSK Squad for IPL 2026
The final 25-player roster is a mix of high-value veterans and promising youth:
- Batters: Ruturaj Gaikwad (C); Dewald Brevis; Ayush Mhatre; Sarfaraz Khan.
- Wicketkeepers: Sanju Samson; MS Dhoni; Kartik Sharma; Urvil Patel.
- All-Rounders: Shivam Dube; Prashant Veer; Jamie Overton; Matthew Short; Zak Foulkes; Aman Khan.
- Bowlers: Noor Ahmad; Khaleel Ahmed; Nathan Ellis; Rahul Chahar; Matt Henry; Akeal Hosein; Mukesh Choudhary; Shreyas Gopal; Gurjapneet Singh.
With a full squad and 2.4 crore remaining in the purse; CSK looks formidable for the 2026 season; starting their campaign on March 30 against Rajasthan Royals.