After a disappointing IPL 2025 where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finished at the bottom with just 4 wins in 14 matches, big moves are expected ahead of the 2026 season. With the trade window open and several players underperforming, CSK may look to refresh their squad by releasing or trading established names. Here’s a detailed look at CSK players most likely to attract interest from other franchises.
1. Rahul Tripathi
Why Might CSK Release Rahul Tripathi?
- Signed for INR 3.40 Crores in the 2025 mega auction.
- Managed just 55 runs with an average of 11.
- Failed to fix CSK’s top-order issues, especially during Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury absence.
- With Gaikwad’s return and the addition of Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, and Dewald Brevis, Tripathi is likely to be surplus to requirements.
Player Attributes
- Plays fearlessly in the powerplay.
- Excels at attacking fast bowling.
- Effective accelerator on flat batting pitches.
Possible Destinations
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
All three struggled with inconsistent Indian batting options last season and could benefit from Tripathi’s aggressive style in the top order.
2. Rachin Ravindra
Why Might CSK Release Rachin Ravindra?
- Retained using Right to Match (RTM) but delivered only 413 runs at 24.29 in 18 innings.
- Has not matched his international consistency in the IPL.
- Prolonged rough patch could see CSK looking elsewhere for top-order stability.
Player Attributes
- Strong, stoic technique.
- Proficient against both pace and spin.
- Known as a reliable anchor in white-ball formats.
Possible Destinations
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Delhi Capitals (DC) (especially considering veteran Faf du Plessis’ age and inconsistent form from Abhishek Porel and Karun Nair)
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Franchises with unstable top orders may see Ravindra as a solution for steady starts and middle-over solidity.
3. Sam Curran
Why Might CSK Release Sam Curran?
- Bought for INR 2.4 Crores but did not feature regularly or find a defined role.
- Struggled with both bat and ball—his medium pace was not particularly effective.
- Inability to lock down a consistent batting position or deliver breakthroughs reduced his impact.
Player Attributes
- Dynamic electric hitting, especially against pace.
- Useful with variations and left-arm swing, especially in the powerplay and death overs.
- Reliable lower-order finisher and experienced in high-pressure scenarios.
Possible Destinations
- Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Gujarat Titans (GT)
- Delhi Capitals (DC)
All three teams are in search of fast-bowling all-rounders with proven T20 credentials and could use Curran’s versatility.
Summary Table: Key CSK Players Up for Potential Trade
| Player | 2025 Performance | Role | Potential New Teams | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rahul Tripathi | 55 runs (avg 11) | Top-order Bat | KKR, RR, SRH | Powerplay aggression, Indian core |
| Rachin Ravindra | 413 runs (avg 24.29, 18 inns) | Opener/Anchor | KKR, DC, SRH | Stability, left-handed anchor |
| Sam Curran | Inconsistent (bat/ball) | All-rounder | MI, GT, DC | Left-arm seam, lower-order hitting |
CSK fans should expect significant transfer activity as the franchise looks to rebuild after a poor season, and rival teams will be watching closely for opportunities to snap up proven IPL talent as soon as the trade window buzz intensifies.
