IPL 2026: The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again enter the Indian Premier League 2026 season as one of the most balanced and experience-rich teams in the competition.
Known for their calm leadership, smart auction strategy, and unwavering fan support, CSK have assembled a squad that blends legendary names with emerging Indian talent and exciting overseas stars.
With a strong core of batters, versatile all-rounders, and reliable bowlers, Chennai look well-prepared to challenge for another IPL title. Let’s take a detailed look at CSK’s full squad, their batting depth, and the possible playing XI for IPL 2026.
Chennai Super Kings Batting Unit:
Sanju Samson – WK-Batter
Sanju Samson brings flair, aggression, and leadership qualities to the CSK batting lineup. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs makes him a strong contender for a top-order role, giving Chennai flexibility with wicketkeeping options.
Ruturaj Gaikwad – Batter
Ruturaj Gaikwad remains the backbone of CSK’s batting order. Known for his elegance and consistency, Gaikwad is expected to anchor the innings while also increasing the tempo when required. He will likely lead the batting charts once again.
MS Dhoni – WK-Batter
Even in IPL 2026, MS Dhoni remains the heartbeat of Chennai Super Kings. Whether he plays as a finisher or purely as a leader behind the stumps, Dhoni’s presence adds unmatched calm and tactical brilliance. His finishing ability and game awareness continue to be priceless assets.
Dewald Brevis – Batter
The South African sensation adds explosive power to CSK’s middle order. Dewald Brevis is capable of turning matches within a few overs, making him a dangerous option against both pace and spin.
Ayush Mhatre – Batter
A promising young Indian batter, Ayush Mhatre offers depth and stability. His inclusion highlights CSK’s focus on grooming future stars while maintaining balance in the squad.
Kartik Sharma – WK-Batter
Kartik Sharma provides additional wicketkeeping cover and aggressive batting lower down the order. His versatility strengthens CSK’s squad combinations.
Sarfaraz Khan – Batter
Sarfaraz Khan’s domestic consistency finally finds a solid platform at CSK. His fearless approach and ability to play spin well suit Chennai’s home conditions perfectly.
Urvil Patel – WK-Batter
Another exciting wicketkeeper-batter, Urvil Patel adds depth and competition within the squad, giving the team multiple tactical options.
All-Rounders: The Core Strength of CSK
Chennai’s all-rounder department is arguably one of the strongest in IPL 2026. Players like Shivam Dube, Matthew Short, Jamie Overton, and Akeal Hosein ensure balance across departments. Shivam Dube, in particular, remains a key match-winner with his power-hitting and useful medium pace.
Bowling Attack: Variety and Control
With bowlers like Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Matt Henry, and Rahul Chahar, CSK boast a diverse bowling lineup. The mix of left-arm pace, wrist spin, mystery spin, and death-over specialists makes them a threat on any surface.
IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings Squad
| Sr. No. | Player Name | Primary Role |
| MS Dhoni | WK-Batter | |
| Sanju Samson | WK-Batter | |
| Ruturaj Gaikwad | Batter | |
| Dewald Brevis | Batter | |
| Ayush Mhatre | Batter | |
| Kartik Sharma | WK-Batter | |
| Sarfaraz Khan | Batter | |
| Urvil Patel | WK-Batter | |
| Anshul Kamboj | All-Rounder | |
| Jamie Overton | All-Rounder | |
| Ramakrishna Ghosh | All-Rounder | |
| Prashant Veer | All-Rounder | |
| Matthew William Short | All-Rounder | |
| Aman Khan | All-Rounder | |
| Zak Foulkes | All-Rounder | |
| Shivam Dube | All-Rounder | |
| Khaleel Ahmed | Bowler | |
| Noor Ahmad | Bowler | |
| Mukesh Choudhary | Bowler | |
| Nathan Ellis | Bowler | |
| Shreyas Gopal | Bowler | |
| Gurjapneet Singh | Bowler | |
| Akeal Hosein | Bowler | |
| Matt Henry | Bowler | |
| Rahul Chahar | Bowler |
IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings Playing XI
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Sanju Samson (WK)
- Dewald Brevis
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Shivam Dube
- MS Dhoni
- Matthew William Short
- Akeal Hosein
- Rahul Chahar
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Nathan Ellis
Impact Player options: Mukesh Choudhary, Noor Ahmad, Jamie Overton
Final Thoughts
The Chennai Super Kings squad for IPL 2026 embodies everything the franchise stands for—stability, strategic planning, and a balance of experience and youth.
With a solid batting core led by Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni, backed by powerful all-rounders and a varied bowling attack, CSK look well-equipped to make a deep run in the tournament.
As always, much will depend on form, fitness, and conditions, but one thing is certain—writing off Chennai Super Kings is never a wise idea.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Auction: Expensive Purchases & Complete Sold Player List