The Indian Premier League is never short of drama, and with the IPL 2026 auction drawing close, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reportedly made some bold decisions. As per Cricbuzz and several media rumors, CSK, five-time IPL champions, will release five players—including high-profile picks and an ex-IPL winner—to overhaul their squad after a disappointing 2025 season.
The Players Likely to Be Released
According to reports, CSK may part ways with:
– Devon Conway
– Sam Curran
– Deepak Hooda
– Vijay Shankar
– Rahul Tripathi
Notably, Sam Curran (England’s 2022 T20 World Cup hero) and Devon Conway were considered star signings but failed to deliver in IPL 2025. Team management wants to start afresh and build around promising young talent and star mainstays like MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Rachin Ravindra.
Why the Tough Calls?
CSK ended IPL 2025 at the bottom of the points table, winning just 4 of their 14 matches. This prompted a thorough review and a bold decision to let go of non-performing names to free up funds and chase new targets in the auction. The team is reportedly interested in acquiring Rajasthan Royals’ Sanju Samson as a marquee signing—and possibly even the captain.
Delhi Capitals to Release Mitchell Starc?
The upcoming mini auction is likely to witness some big releases across multiple franchises. Delhi Capitals may release Australian pacer Mitchell Starc (10.75 crore bid last season), along with T Natarajan, to refresh their bowling attack. Injuries and underperformance played a role in the team’s decisions. Other franchises like LSG and KKR may also look to rebuild.
Looking Ahead: The Impact
This move could dramatically shake up the IPL 2026 auction dynamics, with several seasoned players suddenly available. Teams will jostle for top Indian and international talent in December.
Fans can expect to see a fresh CSK squad, with longtime faces like MS Dhoni, Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and young guns like Ayush Matre still around. With auctions likely between December 13–15, the countdown for a new IPL chapter has begun!
FAQs
1. Why is CSK releasing so many players?
To rebuild the squad after a poor 2025 IPL season and create room for new acquisitions.
2. Who are the confirmed likely releases?
Devon Conway, Sam Curran, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Rahul Tripathi.
3. Why did Sam Curran and Devon Conway underperform?
Both struggled with form and consistency in IPL 2025, failing to meet expectations.
4. Is MS Dhoni retiring or being released?
No, MS Dhoni is likely to continue as both a player and mentor.
5. Who might captain CSK if not Dhoni?
Sanju Samson is a target and could be a captaincy contender if acquired.
6. Why might the Delhi Capitals release Mitchell Starc?
Injuries and expensive bids with lesser returns make Starc a possible release.
7. What happens next for released players?
They enter the IPL 2026 auction pool and can be picked up by any team.
8. When is the IPL 2026 auction?
Expected between December 13–15, 2025.
9. Are other IPL franchises releasing big names?
Yes, teams like LSG and KKR are expected to release high-value players as well.
10. Where can I follow updates?
Monitor IPL’s official website and sports news portals for real-time updates.
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