IPL 2026: 5 All-rounders CSK might target in mini-auction

In modern-day cricket, especially in the shortest format, all-rounders are highly valued as they add depth to the batting line-up and give captains more bowling options. The IPL 2026 mini-auction will take place on December 16, 2025, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are heading into it with an available purse of Rs. 43.4 crore. 

Having retained 16 players, they have a maximum of nine slots to fill, including four overseas slots. So CSK might look to add a few all-rounders to strengthen their squad for the upcoming seasons, especially after trading both the star all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to get Sanju Samson in return.

Here are the 5 all-rounders CSK might target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

1. Andre Russell

Andre Russell’s long 11-year stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has come to an end as the franchise released him. This veteran West Indies all-rounder could be a definite option CSK would like to explore. Everyone knows what Russell brings — power-hitting, precise death bowling, and top-quality fielding.

However, fitness will be the key factor behind any team showing interest, as it has been a concern in recent years. If that aspect is satisfactory, Russell could still be the X-factor CSK may want to secure.

2. Dasun Shanaka

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka is another option CSK might look at. He is expected to be available at a low price compared to other all-rounders, but his ability to bat under pressure, finish calmly, and chip in with important overs makes him an exciting and experienced choice. 

With Sam Curran no longer part of CSK, they could look at Shanaka as a seam-bowling all-rounder. However, he last played in the IPL during the 2023 season, That season, while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT), in three matches, he scored only 26 runs while not having any chance to bowl. 

3. Wiaan Mulder

South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder is known for swinging the new ball and offering technically solid batting. Mulder can provide stability in the middle order. However, last season with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), he played only one game and conceded 16 runs without taking a wicket. With the bat, he scored only nine runs.

4. Cameron Green

If the Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green enters the auction, CSK must target him. Green is among the top all-rounders in world cricket and offers strong, technically sound batting along with useful seam bowling, especially in the middle overs. 

He is currently playing in the ongoing Ashes series against England, but has IPL experience. In 29 games, he has scored 707 runs and taken 16 wickets.

5. Glenn Maxwell

Another Australian option is the experienced Glenn Maxwell. Despite playing 141 IPL games for four different teams, questions remain about his form and consistency. He has 2819 runs and 41 wickets, but fans have always expected more from him. 

For CSK, Maxwell could find a fresh platform. In Chennai, where spinners get assistance, Maxwell’s off-spin could be valuable, along with his power-hitting in the lower order.

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