Top 5 Young Guns Chennai Super Kings Must Retain for IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings’ Shift Towards Youth

As IPL 2025 wrapped up with Chennai Super Kings sitting at the bottom of the table, it became evident that relying solely on experienced players was no longer viable. The late pivot towards youth has shown promise, especially with standout performances from younger players during the season.

Deadline Approaches for Retentions

The retention deadline is fast approaching, with November 15 marking the last day for teams to finalize their rosters ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction scheduled from December 13 to 15. Let’s explore the five young talents that CSK should consider locking down as they plan for a more competitive future.

Dewald Brevis: Emerging Star

After joining as a mid-season replacement, Dewald Brevis turned out to be a revelation for CSK. Despite a slow start, he managed to score 225 runs in just 6 matches, averaging 37.50 with a stunning strike rate of 180.

Ayush Mhatre: The Reliable Opener

Another impressive young player is Ayush Mhatre, who scored 240 runs in 7 matches while stepping in as an opener. Mhatre’s aggressive style could be key for CSK’s future success.

Other Notable Mentions

Youngsters like Noor Ahmad and Andre Siddarth also deserve a mention. Noor Ahmad finished as the leading wicket-taker for CSK in IPL 2025, claiming 24 wickets, while Siddarth has exhibited potential in domestic cricket.

In conclusion, retaining these young players could set CSK on a path to reclaim their dominance in the IPL.