- CSK confirm Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain for 2026
- Newly traded Sanju Samson expected to open the innings
- Franchise heads into auction with INR 43.40 million purse
Chennai Super Kings have officially confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as captain for IPL 2026, putting an end to speculation around the role after the arrival of Sanju Samson. The franchise announced the decision on social media, reaffirming their trust in Gaikwad, who took over from MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2024.
Samson, traded in from Rajasthan Royals in a major move that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran head the other way, brings extensive captaincy experience but will not lead CSK. Instead, he is expected to open the batting and strengthen the top order.
CSK, who won the IPL in 2023 but finished fifth in 2024 and tenth in 2025, enter the 2026 auction with a refreshed squad strategy. The franchise has released Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra and Matheesha Pathirana among several others, creating room for eight new signings, including four overseas players.
With a purse of INR 43.40 million, CSK are likely to pursue a high-impact overseas allrounder to replace Curran. The franchise is expected to go big for names like Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone or Cameron Green, while also seeking a reliable back-up option for Nathan Ellis.
