3 Players CSK could have bought instead of Sarfaraz Khan

Ace batter Sarfaraz Khan went unsold in the first round of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction on December 16 but was eventually roped in by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for his base price of INR 75 lakh in the accelerated bidding round, making a comeback to the marquee T20 tournament after three seasons.

The right-handed batter's selection came on the back of the red-hot form he was in during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, slamming 329 runs in seven innings at an average of 65.80 and a strike rate of 203.39. However, there are three players who could have done better for CSK in IPL 2026 considering the team dynamics. 

Here are 3 players CSK could have bought over Sarfaraz Khan

3. Abhinav Manohar

Abhinav Manohar failed to live up to his potential in the IPL when he represented the Gujarat Titans and the Sunrisers Hyderabad in recent seasons. However, his ferocious ball-striking ability was expected to earn him a hefty pay cheque at the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

Manohar was available to teams at a base price of INR 30 lakh. However, no one seemed interested when his name was announced at the auction. CSK could have used his services, especially after letting go of two experienced finishers like Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja last month. Maybe a disappointing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign for Manohar with the bat influenced CSK's decision-makers not to raise the paddle for him.