With IPL 2026 With the mini-auction coming up in December, teams have begun tweaking their final strategies after finalizing their catch lists. Among them, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stand at one point as they look to rebuild after a disappointing season. The five-time champions have retained a compact core and now enter the auction with a purse and clear areas to eliminate. Former Indian cricketer Muhammad Kaif Now naming two domestic options that could bolster their attack, he offered the insight that CSK should pursue in the upcoming auction.
IPL 2026: STEENTONS Done, Auction countdown begins for CSK
CSK has retained 15 players ahead of the IPL 2026 season, including the likes Ms dhonicaptain Travel Giikwad, Shivam Dube, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmed and others. The franchise opted for major changes, releasing several high-profile players such as Devon Conway Matheesha Pathirana.
In one of the biggest trade deals before the auction, CSK sent Ravindra jadeja and Sam Curran for Rajasthan Royals and brought Sanju Samsonadding both experience and comfort to the top and middle rules. With major changes in the squad, the upcoming auction is crucial for the Dhoni-backed side as they aim to rebuild a competitive XI.
Mohammad Kaif names two bowlers CSK can target in IPL 2026 auction
KAIF believes that CSK will continue their tradition of supporting Indian bowlers – especially those who can thrive on the dry, slow surfaces of Chennai. Speaking on the YouTube channel, he chose Akash Madhawal as a strong case for the yellow brigade.
“CSK targeting Akash Madhawal in IPL 2026 auction. Kaif said.
He enjoyed a breakout season with Madhawal Mumbai Indians In 2023, he took 14 wickets in eight matches, with a total of 23 wickets in 17 IPL games. Rajasthan bought him for intr 1.20 crore in 2025 but released him before the 2026 auction, making him an attractive option for franchises looking for an Indian pacer with swing and death.
KAIF also suggested that they might look at Ravi Bishno, who was dropped by CSK Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The leg-spinner has been a consistent wicket-taker in the league and can serve as a valuable medium-overs weapon.
“There aren’t many options among Sinshiks. Bishnoi might be cheap, so he might take it.” KAIF added.
Both Madhawal, Bishnoi and CHEPAUK believe that Spin-CSK, which reverses conditions, controls and attacks, can significantly strengthen CSK’s bowling stock.
CSK’s auction strategy: Heavy bag, clear targets
The five-time champions enter the auction with a healthy purse of Rs 43.40 crore, the biggest among any team. With the ninth available slot, including four foreign slots, CSK is expected to be aggressive in its auction schedule.
Given their financial comfort, CSK can bid high for marquee players while strengthening the Indian bowling line-up. Fans can expect the franchise to invest heavily in proven performers as they look to assemble a squad capable of making a strong comeback in IPL 2026.
Read: Irfan Pathan picks CSK legend MS Dhoni’s ideal batting position for IPL 2026
