The CSK Predicted Playing 11 for the IPL 2026 reflects a well-balanced combination of experience, consistency, and strategic depth.

After finishing last in the IPL 2025 season, the five-time champions are in a rebuilding phase before heading to the new season.

Despite going on with traditional ways in previous editions, the franchise decided to bring talented youngsters into the squad and will be aiming to field a mix of young and experienced campaigners for the upcoming season.

However, several icons like Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin have either traded or retired ahead of the IPL 2026.

With the inclusion of an experienced campaigner like Sanju Samson on a historic trade for Jadeja and Sam Curran and the return of Ruturaj Gaikwad after missing the second half of the previous year’s campaign due to injury, the Kings will be aiming to achieve their former glory.

The inclusion of uncapped players like Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma in the CSK 2026 squad for INR 14.20 crore each will be key for the franchise in their hunt for the sixth title.

CSK Predicted Playing 11 for IPL 2026

The CSK Predicted Playing 11 for the Chennai Super Kings reflects their consistent approach of combining stability with impactful performers.

The 2026 T20 World Cup Hero Sanju Samson is expected to open along with Ayush Mhatre, who was the captain of the U19 World Cup winner in 2026, to give a balanced start at the top.

Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad will come at No.3 to anchor the innings, and 19-year-old Kartik Sharma, who is considered a successor of MS Dhoni in CSK, will come at No.4.

The 360-degree batter Dewald Brevis will come at No. 5, anchoring the innings at crucial times and middle overs, while the T20 World Cup start Shivam Dube follows at No.6.

Prashant Veer, who is seen as a replacement for Ravindra Jadeja, is expected to bat at No.7 and MS Dhoni, the identity of CSK likely batting at number eight to provide at death-over cameos.

With Noor Ahmad and Khaleel Ahmed to lead spin and pace attack, respectively, Matt Henry will be another pace option. With Nathan Ellis ruled out of the season due to injury, CSK will be re-strategising their death over plans.

Based on the conditions, Akeal Hosein and Anshul Kamboj might come in, and Khaleel Ahmed could be used as an impact player. This all can change depending on Dhoni’s decision on his batting position.

1. Sanju Samson
2. Ayush Mhatre
3. Ruturaj Gaikwad
4. Shivam Dubey
5. Dewald Brevis
6. Prashant Veer
7. Karthik Sharma
8. MS Dhoni
9. Noor Ahmed
10. Khaleel Ahmed / Anshul Kamboj
11. Matt Henry

CSK Opening Match in IPL 2026

As per the IPL 2026 schedule, Chennai Super Kings will play their opener match against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati.

The CSK Predicted Playing XI for the Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026 shows a clear rebuilding phase after a difficult previous season. The team is focusing on blending experienced leaders with promising young talent to restore balance and competitiveness.

With the guidance of MS DhoniCSK aims to bring stability, smart decision-making, and match-winning consistency. If the team clicks as a unit, they can once again become serious contenders in IPL 2026.