IPL 2026 Auction: CSK’s probable middle order, spin and pace targets

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) endured one of their poorest campaigns in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, finishing at the bottom of the points table for the first time in the tournament’s history. The five-time champions will be eager to bounce back strongly in the upcoming season and rebuild a squad capable of challenging for the title once again.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction scheduled for December 16, CSK have already made a major move by trading in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR). With Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ayush Mhatre, Samson, and Urvil Patel forming the top order, CSK appear well settled at the top. However, other departments still require strengthening to create a well-balanced and competitive unit. 

Here are CSK’s probable targets for middle order, spinners, and pacers in IPL 2026 Auction

Middle Order

CSK currently have Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube in the middle order, but the lack of experience remains a concern. To address this, the franchise could target proven overseas all-rounders such as Liam Livingstone and Michael Bracewell in the mini-auction.

Livingstone has scored over 1,000 IPL runs while representing multiple franchises and is known for his explosive power-hitting, which would complement Brevis perfectly. Meanwhile, Bracewell, who featured briefly for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2023, has since gained significant international experience. He could fill the void left by Ravindra Jadeja, who was traded to RR along with Sam Curran, offering balance with both bat and ball.

Spinners

Spin bowling has always been a strength for CSK, especially on the slower Chepauk surface. Currently, Noor Ahmad is their primary spinner, but relying on a single option may not be sufficient. West Indies left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein could serve as a reliable backup. Hosein played one match for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2023 and has since developed into a dependable T20 bowler.

Another strong option is Ravi Bishnoi, who has taken 72 wickets in the IPL. His attacking leg-spin and energetic style could blend well with CSK’s team culture and provide a match-winning edge in the middle overs.

Pacers

In the pace department, CSK may look at Matt Henry from New Zealand. The Kiwi fast bowler has featured in six IPL matches and brings genuine pace, consistently clocking 145+ kmph, which could add variety to CSK’s attack.

Additionally, domestic talent Auqib Nabi from Jammu & Kashmir could be a smart budget pick. He is known for his discipline, consistency across formats, and could emerge as a valuable steal deal in the auction.

CSK already boast a strong pace-bowling unit comprising Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, and Gurjapneet Singh, and the addition of these two pacers would further strengthen the attack and do wonders for the franchise.