Chennai Super Kings (CSK) completely changed the long-standing ‘experience-first’ philosophy IPL 2026 the auction opted for a youth-centric rebuild after a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them finish bottom of the table. Armed with the second largest purse of ₹43.40 crore, CSK stunned fans and pundits by spending more than sixty percent of their budget on two Indian players. With the formation of the squad, the biggest question is how CSK’s best XI will look. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin weighed in by picking his preferred CSK XI in response to the franchise’s fan poll on social media.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s CSK playing 11 for IPL 2026
A solid opening pair to set the tone
Ashwin supported a fresh yet balanced opening combination by incorporating youngsters Ayush Mhatre with Sanju Samson. Notably, Samson was roped in by CSK from the pre-auction trade window, adding both experience and explosiveness. Ayush’s inclusion reflects CSK’s confidence in fearless young batsmen, while Samson’s ability to dominate the Powerplay and keep wickets provides tactical flexibility.
Powerhouse middle order
The backbone of Ashwin’s XI lies in the middle order led by the captain Travel to Giikwa. Ashwin sees Gaikwad as the perfect anchor who can shift gears when needed. Shivam Dubey‘s presence adds brute force against spin Devald Brewis it offers dynamism and innovation, especially in the middle sections. Together, the trio combines consistency with aggression – something CSK lacked last season.
The MS Dhoni factor remains crucial
Even in the new era CSK, MS Dhoni continues to play a key role in the team’s balance. Ashwin slotted unscales all-rounder Prashant Veer Along with Dhoni, it highlights the mentor-protégé dynamic. Veer’s inclusion rewards his auction hype, while Dhoni’s composure behind the stumps and in moments of crisis remains invaluable, especially for a young squad navigating high-pressure situations.
A dynamic bowling combination offers variety
Ashwin’s bowling attack focuses on his ability to adapt to the conditions. And he chose Akeal Hosein or Matt Henry based on adaptations supported by Khalil Ahmed‘s left-arm pace, Nathan Ellis’ expertise at the death and Nur Ahmedwrist spin hazard. The combination provides pace, swing, variation and spin – covering all phases of T20 batting.
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Influence players in Ashwin’s setup
For the role of Impact Player, Ashwin offered flexible options like Anshul. Karthik Sharma, Shreyas Gopalor Sarfraz, depending on the circumstances and the opposition. This reinforces CSK’s intention to remain tactically flexible rather than getting caught up in rigid formations.
₹ 14.20 crore No room for a teenager
The most notable omission from Ashwin’s XI is Karthik. The 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman was bought for a staggering ₹14.20 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history alongside Prashant. Despite the huge investment, Ashwin prefers to ease Karthik into the tournament rather than drop him straight into the starting XI. The call underscores a clear message: price tags will not dictate choice in CSK’s new-look set-up, balance and preparation trump hype.
Ashwin’s CSK Playing XI for IPL 2026: Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni, Akeal Hosein/Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmed.
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