The mini-auction is expected to take place in December, and all ten teams must submit their retention lists by November 2025. This period is always crucial, and for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), it’s especially important after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign that saw them finish at the bottom of the table.
With a major rebuild likely on the cards, here’s a look at five players CSK might consider releasing before IPL 2026.
1️⃣ Rahul Tripathi
CSK’s decision to sign Rahul Tripathi for a hefty sum didn’t quite go as planned. The experienced batter struggled for form and consistency, often failing to provide the brisk starts he’s known for.
Tripathi’s IPL 2025 Stats:
- Matches: 5
- Runs: 55
- Average: 11.00
- Strike Rate: 96.49
Despite being given multiple chances, he couldn’t make an impact and was eventually dropped. With young openers like Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel showing promise, CSK might choose to release Tripathi and use those funds to secure a more reliable middle-order option.
2️⃣ Rahul Tripathi
Another underwhelming buy for CSK, Deepak Hooda failed to justify his selection. The team took a gamble hoping for a turnaround season, but the results were far from satisfactory.
Hooda’s IPL 2025 Stats:
- Matches: 7
- Runs: 31
- Average: 6.20
- Strike Rate: 75.61
Persisting with him for seven matches didn’t pay off, and with plenty of young Indian batters waiting for opportunities, CSK will likely release Hooda before the next season.
3️⃣ Jamie Overton
The English all-rounder was brought in with high hopes of filling Sam Curran’s shoes, but his stint was short-lived. Overton’s bowling lacked control, and he proved expensive in every game.
Bowling Stats (IPL 2025):
- Matches: 3
- Runs Conceded: 83
- Economy: 13.83
CSK could use his overseas slot and salary to target a more effective all-rounder who can both contain runs and take wickets consistently.
4️⃣ Vijay Shankar
Vijay Shankar’s season wasn’t as poor as others on this list, but he failed to make a significant difference when it mattered.
Shankar’s IPL 2025 Stats:
- Matches: 6
- Runs: 118
- Average: 39.33
- Strike Rate: 129.67
While his numbers look decent, his inability to accelerate in the middle overs often slowed CSK’s momentum. Releasing him could free up around ₹1.2 crore — funds that could be used for a more dynamic finisher.
5️⃣ Devon Conway
Once CSK’s star opener during their 2023 title-winning season, Devon Conway’s recent form has dipped significantly. Injuries and inconsistent performances have seen him lose his place to Rachin Ravindra.
Conway’s IPL 2025 Stats:
- Matches: 6
- Runs: 156
- Strike Rate: 131
Given CSK’s faith in Ravindra and the need to refresh their top order, Conway could be one of the big names released before IPL 2026.
Final Thoughts:
After a tough 2025 season, CSK clearly need a reset. Releasing these players could help them build a stronger, younger, and more balanced squad heading into IPL 2026. Fans will be eagerly waiting to see how the management reshapes the iconic yellow brigade.
