IPL 2026 CSK Retention Update: MS Dhoni can play major role

Did Chennai Super Kings (CSK) already finalize the list of players who can be released ahead of the IPL 2026 auction? For the last couple of days the question has been hovering around cricket fans on social media platforms.

A recent media report claims multiple names of cricketers who can be released by the franchise before the auction. The list of probables contains some big names as well. When the speculations about CSK's probable retention list were at their peak, the franchise updated their bio on their official social media account, suggesting the followers not to believe in rumors; the final decision is yet to be made. Now, another report about the topic has arrived.

The latest report also suggested that the multi-time IPL franchise is yet to reach a final decision about the players who they want to release ahead of IPL 2026. To finalize the list, it is reported that Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, and head coach Stephen Fleming can soon have a meeting together to chalk out their future plans. It is also claimed that after their discussions, N Srinivasan will give final approval; before his final approval, nothing is concrete. 

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Speculations around Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026 mini auction

According to the report published by Cricbuzz, as of now, December 13-15 is considered the probable window for the IPL 2026 auction. Ahead of the auction, which will be a mini auction unlike a mega auction held last season, all of the franchises will have to finalize the names of the players they are willing to retain and release.

In the mini auction, there can be multiple high-profile names in search of a new team. According to the report, the date for the retention deadline can be November 15.