CSK IPL 2026 retention list: Chennai Super Kings full list of retained and released players ahead of mega auction

In a blockbuster trade ahead of IPL 2026, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have acquired veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR), while sending Men in Yellow legend Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to RR.

This move marks one of the biggest trade deals in IPL history. CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan described the decision to part ways with Jadeja as one of the toughest the franchise has faced. “We felt the need for a top-order Indian batsman, and since not many Indian batsmen will be available at the auction, the trade window was the best option. Leaving Jaddu was extremely difficult given his contribution to CSK’s success over the years,” Viswanathan said in a video released by the team. Jadeja, who represented RR in 2008-09 and CSK from 2012 to 2025 (with brief stints at Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Gujarat Lions), leaves as CSK’s leading wicket-taker with 143 scalps in 186 matches and their highest run-getter in IPL history with 2,198 runs.

CSK Released Players (2026)

CSK Retained Players (2026)

Auction Details: CSK will have ₹43.4 crore left to spend at the IPL 2026 mega auction. They have 9 slots remaining to fill in the upcoming season.