IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin suggests 3 players CSK should target in the mini-auction

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has outlined a targeted three-player strategy that he believes the Chennai franchise should pursue in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mega-auction to address specific vulnerabilities exposed during their disappointing previous campaign.

Despite the buzz surrounding a trade for Sanju Samson, Ashwin pointed out that CSK still has significant gaps in their lower order and bowling attack that must be plugged with experienced talent.

Ravichandran Ashwin names the 3 players CSK should target in the IPL 2026 auction

Ashwin suggested that the five-time champions should prioritize filling the roles of a lethal finisher, a chief spinner (especially if Ravindra Jadeja is traded), and a veteran Indian pacer. The three names he put forward are experienced campaigners who had a tough time in the previous season and might be released by their current franchises, making them available at the auction:

“I know there is a lot of talk about Cameron Green to CSK, but I think they will target two players in particular. One is David Miller, if he is released, and the other is Mohammad Shami, who will probably be released. Another one could probably be Rahul Chahar.” Ashwin was quoted as saying by the Sportskeeda.

Ashwin’s rationale for these picks is clear:

• David Miller: To bolster the lower middle-order and provide a much-needed powerful finisher, particularly if he is released by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
• Mohammad Shami: To complete their bowling attack with a veteran seamer, capitalizing on the likely availability of the Indian fast bowler.
• Rahul Chahar: To serve as a chief wrist-spinner, filling the void that would be created in the middle overs if the rumored trade sending Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals (RR) is finalized.

Also READ: CSK’s most expensive players at each IPL Auction: From Ravindra Jadeja to Ben Stokes

Ashwin slams CSK’s finishing problem amid Sanju Samson trade

While acknowledging that the proposed Sanju Samson trade is a “win-win” for both the player and the brand identity of CSK, Ashwin was highly critical of his former team for neglecting the lower-order finishing department, a problem made worse by the rumored departure of Jadeja and MS Dhoni’s waning prowess. He cited the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as a franchise that prioritized finishers and won the title as a result.

Ashwin highlighted the missed opportunity, noting that RCB acquired the overseas pair of Tim David and Romario Shepherd for a combined sum of only INR 4.50 crore, and they proved instrumental in the title win. He concluded that the focus on Samson, a top-order player, leaves CSK with a significant finishing is the issue problem that they must address in the upcoming auction.

“This trade is wonderful for CSK and Samson in terms of brand identity, opportunity to take over as captain, a top-order keeper-batter, so everything fits. But, the state the team is in, what did they need? They needed a power hitter and a finisher. RCB are smiling in the corner because they have Tim David and Romario Shepherd for base prices.” Ashwin concluded.

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