Chennai Super Kings are going to the IPL 2026 mini-auction with an enormous ₹43.4 crore budget and a major emphasis on the replacement of their all-rounder section which is almost depleted. The team is going to spend a lot on players who are versatile enough to support both batting and bowling after a major squad reshuffle due to a disappointing IPL 2025 season.
CSK have made daring decisions already—trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals for Sanju Samson, and letting go of 11 players, among them Rachin Ravindra and Matheesha Pathirana. The team will have nine gaps to fill, and its focus will be on enhancing the all-round core before the auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Here are four all-rounders CSK are likely to pursue:
1. Cameron Green
Why CSK Want Him
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be one of the biggest attractions at the auction. His explosive batting, reliable seam bowling, and strong fielding make him a perfect fit for a rebuilding CSK. Green can seamlessly slot into the middle order while also offering quality overs with the ball.
IPL Record
- Matches: 29
- Runs: 707
- Average: 41.58
- Strike Rate: 153.69
- Wickets: 16
Image Caption: Cameron Green is likely to draw heavy bidding interest at the IPL 2026 auction.
2. Glenn Maxwell
Released by Punjab Kings, Glenn Maxwell returns to the auction as one of the most versatile T20 all-rounders. CSK, with one of the largest purses, have the advantage to chase Maxwell aggressively—especially with their need for a power-packed No. 6 batter who can also deliver crucial off-spin overs.
IPL Record
- Matches: 141
- Runs: 2,819
- Strike Rate: 155.14
- Wickets: 41
Image Caption: Glenn Maxwell’s finishing skills and off-spin could significantly boost CSK’s balance.
3. Andre Russell
KKR’s decision to release Andre Russell stunned fans, but it opens the door wide for CSK. Russell brings unmatched power-hitting and wicket-taking ability—exactly what the franchise missed in 2025. With a massive purse available, Chennai can be serious contenders for the Caribbean superstar.
IPL Record
- Matches: 140
- Runs: 2,651
- Strike Rate: 174.17
- Wickets: 123
- Best Bowling: 5/15
Image Caption: Andre Russell could add game-changing firepower to CSK’s lower order.
4. Liam Livingstone
After being released by RCB, Liam Livingstone enters the auction as a top utility pick. His explosive finishing and dual-spin capability (leg-spin + off-spin) directly address CSK’s 2025 middle-order struggles. With ample funds available, Chennai can easily enter—and win—a bidding war for the English all-rounder.
IPL Record
- Runs: 1,051
- Strike Rate: 158.76
- Wickets: 13
