Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings head into IPL 2026 with a revamped squad, bold decisions and a clear shift towards the future. Under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK has built a well-balanced unit with explosive batsmen, promising youngsters and a versatile bowling attack.
However, the team has suffered a major setback heading into the season, with Nathan Ellis ruled out with a hamstring injury. Ellis was expected to spearhead CSK’s death bowling, and his absence will force the team to rethink their bowling combinations.
To add to the intrigue, CSK made a blockbuster trade, bringing in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
Here is CSK’s predicted strongest playing XI for IPL 2026:
Ayush Mhatre: CSK’s opening combination could feature young sensation Ayush Mhatre alongside Sanju Samson. Mhatre, the ICC U19 World Cup-winning captain, impressed during his debut season, arriving as Gaikwad’s replacement and has been retained as a long-term prospect. His aggressive yet composed approach makes him a strong starting candidate.
Sanju Samson: Samson, after a successful ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, where he played a key role in India’s triumph and won the Player of the Tournament award, brings experience and class at the top. His presence instantly elevates CSK’s batting strength.
Ruturaj Gaikwad: At number 3, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad returns to full fitness after missing IPL 2025 mid-season due to an elbow injury. Gaikwad will anchor the innings and provide stability.
Kartik Sharma: CSK’s middle order reflects a clear transition phase. Kartik Sharma, a 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman signed for a whopping sum of Rs 14.20 crore, is seen as MS Dhoni’s long-term successor. Sharma, who is likely to bat at No. 4, has high expectations as a future finisher. However, Sarfaraz Khan has proven to be a batsman in the IPL and it will be interesting to see what the CSK management decides.
Dewald Brevis: Last year, CSK’s middle order received a dynamic boost mid-tournament thanks to Dewald Brevis’ aggressive strokeplay. This season, he will appear from the beginning, adding strength in the number 5 position.
Shivam Dube: At number 6, Shivam Dube remains CSK’s trusted finisher. His recent performances for India in the T20 World Cup, especially in pressure situations, underline his importance in the lower-middle order.
Prashant Veer: One of the biggest talking points is Prashant Veer, the 20-year-old all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh, signed for Rs 14.20 crore. Seen as a direct replacement for Jadeja, Veer offers a similar skill set with powerful left-handed hitting and left-arm spin, giving CSK balance in both departments.
Matt Henry: Nathan Ellis’ absence leaves a significant void in the death overs. To compensate, CSK are likely to rely on Matt Henry, who will lead the pace attack, especially in the powerplay, where his discipline and swing can be crucial. Although CSK could look for a replacement for Nathan Ellis before IPL 2026 as Matt Henry is much more of a power bowler.
Jamie Overton: While Matt Henry is a world-class new bowler, his IPL economy at the backend has been historically high. To support him, CSK could depend more on Jamie Overton to provide additional pace and bounce along with their lower order batting.
Noor Ahmad: Spinning duties will be handled by Noor Ahmad, who impressed last season. He was a key signing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, bought for Rs 10 crore to serve as their main left-arm wrister. He made an immediate impact, notably taking 4/18 against Mumbai Indians on debut.
Khaleel Ahmed: Meanwhile, Khaleel Ahmed adds variety as a left-arm pacer, capable of moving the ball forward and providing early breakthroughs.
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MS Dhoni (impact submarine)
Even at 44, MS Dhoni remains central to CSK’s identity. While his role continues to evolve, he is expected to feature as an impact player, finisher and mentor. The CSK management has confirmed his availability for the entire season, and his exact role will be decided by the coaching staff led by Stephen Fleming.