Chennai Super Kings have officially confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad will retain CSK Captaincy for IPL 2026. The franchise posted on social media to quash all rumours:
“Lead from the front, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.”
This clarification puts to rest speculation that newly traded Sanju Samson might take over as captain.
Sanju Samson Likely to Open the Batting
CSK acquired Samson in a high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals, which involved the movement of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran the other way. While Samson has plentiful IPL captaincy experience, he will not be leading CSK. Sources in the team suggest that Samson is all set to open the innings, thereby adding heft at the top.
Gaikwad’s CSK Captaincy since 2024
Ruturaj Gaikwad first became the captain of CSK ahead of IPL 2024, succeeding MS Dhoni. The team that won IPL 2023 finished fifth under his leadership in 2024 but slipped to tenth in the 2025 season. The franchisee, however, still supports Gaikwad as a captain to lead the team for the coming seasons.
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Major Releases Ahead of the Auction
CSK have made several big decisions regarding the 2026 auction. In addition to Jadeja and Curran, their other major exits include Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Matheesha Pathirana. These major exits create room for fresh signings and strategic rebuilding.
Auction Purse and Team Requirements
CSK head into the December 16 auction at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi with a healthy purse of INR 43.40 crore and eight vacant spots, including four for overseas players.
The franchise will, therefore, likely focus on signing an overseas allrounder as the replacement for Curran. The names that could be considered are that of Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone and Cameron Green. Apart from this, CSK will be searching for a sure back-up option for pacer Nathan Ellis.
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A New Chapter Under the Trusted Leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad With Ruturaj Gaikwad continuing the captaincy for CSK and bringing in a big-hitting opener like Sanju Samson, Chennai Super Kings look all set for a fresh and strategically balanced approach in IPL 2026.
LEAD THE WAY, CAPTAIN RUTURAJ GAIKWAD!💪🦁#WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/EawvX5k2yI
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 15, 2025
ALSO READ: CSK Set To Release Matheesha Pathirana Ahead Of IPL 2026
