CSK could enter the auction with a purse close to ₹40 crore.
While youngsters like Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel and Dewald Brevis showed promise in the top order, the franchise management is reportedly set to release several senior players to free up purse for match-winning signings in the next auction.
According to a TOI report, among those expected to move on is legendary India off-spinner R Ashwin, who was fetched for ₹9.75 crore last season. There is also a question mark over the future of players like Devon Conway (₹6.25 crore), Rachin Ravindra (₹4 crore), Rahul Tripathi (₹3.4 crore), Sam Curran (₹2.4 crore), Gurjapneet Singh (₹2.2 crore), Nathan Ellis (₹2 crore), Deepak Hooda (₹1.75 crore), Jamie Overton (₹1.5 crore) and Vijay Shankar (₹1.2 crore).
This shake-up would add ₹34.45 crore, with CSK potentially entering the auction with a purse close to ₹40 crore.
Although Sanju Samson’s reported ouster from Rajasthan Royals (RR) has caught CSK’s attention, an early move seems tricky. The five-time champions are unwilling to trade marquee names such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, or Shivam Dube.
Unless RR accept a cash-only deal, Samson’s arrival before the auction remains a challenge. The cordial relationship between CSK owners and RR coach Rahul Dravid could play a part in the deal getting finalized, but nothing is confirmed.
In the auction, CSK may also target all-round options such as Cameron Green, Mitchell Owen, or Ben Stokes.
Meanwhile, the legendary MS Dhoni has given no indication of retirement yet. The franchise is confident about Dhoni featuring in the 2026 season, but the former skipper has said he will decide after assessing his fitness. A clearer picture is expected by mid-September.
(With TOI Inputs)