IPL 2026: Predicting CSK strongest playing XI

The Chennai Super Kings have assembled a strong lineup for the IPL 2026. They preserved their core players and added nine new names during the December 16 auction in Abu Dhabi.

They surprised everyone by spending a massive ₹28.40 million on two teenage rookies, Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer, giving them INR 14.20 crore apiece.

They bought Rahul Chahar for INR 5.20 crores and added Akeal Hosein, Matt Short, and Matt Henry for their base price. Aman Khan and Zak Foulkes completed the lineup, and Sarfaraz Khan was signed for Rs 75 lakh to reinforce the middle order.

Let’s take a look at the best possible CSK XI for IPL 2026.

Here is the predicted CSK strongest playing XI for IPL 2026:

In CSK’s predicted best XI for IPL 2026, Ayush Mhatre will open the innings with newly acquired Sanju Samson. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad might be slotted at no. 3, as he has done well in the top order for CSK since he joined the franchise.

South African magician Dewald Brevis is likely to be slotted at the no. 4 spot, with Sarfaraz Khan or Shivam Dube adjusting for the no. 5 and 6 spots. CSK might also include Kartik Sharma in the playing XI in place of Sarfaraz Khan.

MS Dhoni will continue to keep wickets and bat lower down the order as well, giving his fans a glimpse of his big hitting. At home, Noor Ahmad and Rahul Chahar or Prashant Veer might be included as the spinner in the team, while they can be swapped with a pacer.

Nathan Ellis or Jamie Overton and Khaleel Ahmed will be the first-choice pacers for CSK.

Anshul Kambhoj, Urvil Patel, Gurjapneet Singh, and Jamie Overton are likely to be the picks for the impact players.

Predicted CSK strongest playing XI for IPL 2026:

Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Dewald Brevis, Sarfaraz Khan/Kartik Sharma, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni (WK), Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed.

Impact Players: Anshul Kamboj, Prashant Veer/ Kartik Sharma/Urvil Patel/Jamie Overton.

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