CSK probable playing 11 for IPL 2026 after auction

Bowlers: Rahul Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmad

CSK secured Rahul Chahar for INR 5.20 crore at the mini-auction. With 75 IPL wickets across four franchises, Chahar brings experience and control to CSK’s spin department. He is expected to form a potent spin combination with Noor Ahmad, who was CSK’s leading wicket-taker in IPL 2025.

The pace attack is likely to feature Nathan Ellis and Khaleel Ahmed. Ellis has been outstanding in white-ball cricket, especially T20s, with his variations proving effective in all phases of the innings. Khaleel, who had a mixed IPL 2025, remains a key option with his ability to swing momentum through timely breakthroughs.

CSK Predicted Playing XI for IPL 2026:

Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Matthew Short, Dewald Brevis, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni (WK), Rahul Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmad

Impact Player: Shivam Dube