Chennai Super Kings' IPL 2026 Auction Success
On December 16, 2025, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) capped off a successful auction at IPL 2026 by acquiring nine new talents. With strategic investments and a keen eye for talent, the five-time champions of the IPL spent ?14.20 crore each on uncapped Indian players Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer, marking a historic moment as they became the joint record holders for the highest price for uncapped players in IPL history.
Kartik Sharma, a promising 19-year-old keeper-batter from Rajasthan, has made waves in the T20 circuit. His performances in 12 matches have been noteworthy, with 334 runs at a solid average of 30.36 and an impressive strike rate of 162.92, which includes two half-centuries to his name. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Prashant Veer, a left-arm spinner and left-handed batter from Uttar Pradesh, has shown potential with 12 wickets in just nine T20 matches, coupled with a commendable economy rate of 6.45.
International Signings and Key Acquisitions
CSK also bolstered their roster with four overseas cricketers. They acquired West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein and New Zealand pacer Matt Henry for a substantial ?2 crore each. Furthermore, the team strengthened their batting lineup with Australian batter Matthew Short, purchased for ?1.5 crore, and Kiwi all-rounder Zak Foulkes, added to the squad for ?75 lakh.
Among the capped Indian players, CSK showed interest in Rahul Chahar, acquiring him for ?5.2 crore, and Sarfaraz Khan for ?75 lakh, ensuring they have a blend of experience and youth.
CSK's Auction Strategy and Budget
Going into the IPL 2026 auction, CSK had a planned budget of ?43.40 crore with nine slots available for new players, four of which were designated for overseas talent. Their strategy focused on striking a balance between experienced players and newer talents, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
| Player |
Role |
Price (INR) |
| Kartik Sharma |
Keeper-Batter |
?14.20 crore |
| Prashant Veer |
Spinner/Batter |
?14.20 crore |
| Akeal Hosein |
Spinner |
?2 crore |
| Matt Henry |
Pacer |
?2 crore |
| Matthew Short |
Batter |
?1.5 crore |
| Zak Foulkes |
All-Rounder |
?75 lakh |
| Rahul Chahar |
Bowler |
?5.2 crore |
| Sarfaraz Khan |
Batter |
?75 lakh |
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, CSK fans are eager to see how these acquisitions perform on the pitch. With a blend of youth and experience, the team is poised to make a strong bid for another championship title.
Stay tuned for real-time updates on IPL 2026, including live scores, match schedules, and player performances.