'Need to move beyond their ageing stars' - Anil Kumble on CSK's Ravindra Jadeja trade

Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble feels Chennai Super Kings will be better off depending on younger and fresher talent instead of the older players when it comes to the upcoming IPL season. CSK finished at the rock bottom for the first time in their IPL history in 2025.

Kumble justified his opinion by highlighting Ravindra Jadeja's trade to Rajasthan Royals after eight continuous seasons of serving the franchise from 2017. 

“CSK will likely build their batting core around captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube in the top six. They need to move beyond their ageing stars, as shown by the trade move of Ravindra Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals,” stated Kumble while speaking on a show on Jiostar.

Kumble opined that Pathirana's release means that CSK would need to strengthen their fast-bowling unit to complement the likes of Nathan Ellis and Khaleel Ahmed.

“Their bowling needs strengthening after releasing Pathirana. Nathan Ellis becomes crucial as their overseas fast bowler, with Noor Ahmad as the wrist spinner. They still require an Indian spinner to replace Jadeja and more Indian fast bowlers alongside Khaleel Ahmed. Another overseas fast bowler would also help balance their attack,” he added.

The erstwhile Indian leg-spinner also said that he is happy to see Ruturaj Gaikwad being reappointed as captain after the injury setback previous season. He reckoned that Gaikwad must open the batting with Ayush Mhatre or Sanu Samson.

“It's great to see Ruturaj Gaikwad back as captain of the Chennai Super Kings after his injury last season. My clear advice to him is to open the batting himself. While they have Sanju Samson and the promising Ayush Mhatre, Ruturaj is best suited as an opener for CSK. His leadership and batting at the top will provide the stability the team needs,” concluded Kumble.

Ahead of the mini auction for IPL 2026, the Men in Yellow have retained 16 players which leaves them with nine available slots and a purse of INR 43.4 crore. The auction will be held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on December 16.