CSK Likely to Release These Four Players Ahead of IPL 2026 — Full List

As the cricketing world gears up for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2026, excitement is already brewing around the mega auction, which is expected to take place in mid-December—most likely in the UAE. Before that, all franchises must submit their lists of retained and released players by November 15, 2025.

For fans of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful IPL franchises, the upcoming auction presents a chance to restructure their squad. After a mixed 2025 season, the team management is expected to make a few tough decisions to strengthen the lineup and free up purse space. Here’s a look at four players CSK might release before IPL 2026 based on their recent form and team balance needs.

1. Deepak Hooda

All-rounder Deepak Hooda joined CSK in the 2025 auction for ₹1.7 crore, after previously representing Lucknow Super Giants. While his signing was initially seen as a smart move to add depth to the middle order, Hooda’s performances failed to live up to expectations.

During the 2025 IPL season, he featured in seven matches, scoring only 31 runs in five innings at an average of 6.20. Despite his reputation as an aggressive middle-order batter capable of finishing games, Hooda never quite found rhythm in CSK’s lineup.

Given his inconsistent form and inability to make an impact in crunch situations, CSK could release him to pursue a more reliable finisher in the upcoming auction. Over his overall IPL career, Hooda has scored 1,496 runs in 125 matches, including eight half-centuries. While his talent is undeniable, the Chennai camp may now look for fresher options who can provide both stability and explosiveness in the middle overs.

2. Rahul Tripathi

Another player likely on CSK’s release list is Rahul Tripathi, who was bought for a hefty ₹3.4 crore (US$2.4 million) ahead of the 2025 season. Known for his dynamic stroke play and ability to adapt to various batting positions, Tripathi was expected to strengthen CSK’s top and middle order.

However, his performances were far from impressive. In five innings, he managed just 55 runs at an average of 11, a far cry from his usual consistency. His struggle to find form led to his exclusion from the playing XI midway through the season.

Tripathi’s overall IPL record remains respectable — with 2,291 runs in 100 matches at an average of 26.33, having represented five different franchises since his debut in 2017. But considering his recent slump, CSK may opt to release him and reinvest the funds in a younger, more consistent top-order batter.

3. Devon Conway

New Zealand’s stylish opener Devon Conway has been one of CSK’s most dependable overseas players in previous seasons, but his 2025 campaign was underwhelming. Signed for a significant ₹6.25 crore, Conway entered his third season with the franchise carrying high expectations.

However, CSK experimented with Rachin Ravindra as their preferred opener early in the season. When Conway was brought back into the lineup, he failed to replicate his past form, scoring just 156 runs in six innings at an average of 26, with two half-centuries.

While Conway remains a technically sound and composed player, his modest returns and the emergence of young talent like Rachin Ravindra could lead CSK to release him ahead of the 2026 auction. Releasing him would also free up a valuable overseas slot and add a considerable amount to their auction purse — a move that could help the team target an explosive T20 specialist.

4. Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar, acquired for ₹1.2 crore in the 2025 IPL season, showed glimpses of promise with the bat but didn’t make the kind of all-round impact CSK would have hoped for.

He scored 118 runs in five innings at an impressive average of 39.33, yet notably did not bowl a single over for the team — reducing his value as an all-round option. Shankar’s limited role in the bowling department and the presence of several other batting all-rounders may make his position expendable.

Over his IPL career, Shankar has featured in 78 matches, scoring 1,233 runs in 65 innings and taking nine wickets. While his versatility and calm demeanour are assets, CSK may now be looking for a more dynamic player who can deliver consistently with both bat and ball.

CSK’s Approach Ahead of IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings have always been strategic about team building. Known for their strong core, loyalty to key players, and emphasis on balance, CSK rarely opts for drastic overhauls. However, the 2025 season exposed a few cracks — particularly in their middle order and bowling depth.

By potentially releasing players like Hooda, Tripathi, Conway, and Shankar, CSK could create both financial flexibility and space for younger, more versatile players. With the auction likely to be held in the UAE, expect CSK to scout for emerging T20 talents from both domestic and international circuits, especially those who can adapt to subcontinental pitches and powerplay pressure.

The franchise’s leadership — under the watchful eyes of MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming — will aim to rebuild without compromising the team’s trademark composure and consistency. The next auction might just shape the future of CSK’s next generation.