The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have recognized the urgent need for change following a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where they finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time. The team’s shift towards younger talents like Dewald Brevis and Ayush Mhatre has already shown promising results. As the team prepares for the IPL 2026 mini-auction, set for December, here are five young players that should be retained.
Key Young Players to Retain
The upcoming retention deadline on November 15 puts the spotlight on several promising talents who have emerged in IPL 2025. Most notably, there are standout performances that CAS must incorporate into their strategies moving forward.
Dewald Brevis: Future Star
After being signed mid-season as an injury replacement, Dewald Brevis proved to be a game-changer for CSK, scoring 225 runs in just 6 matches at an impressive strike rate of 180. His contributions included 2 fifties, 13 fours, and 17 sixes, showcasing his potential as a reliable player for the team’s future.
Ayush Mhatre: The Aggressive Opener
Ayush Mhatre, another mid-season signing, stepped up admirably in IPL 2025, scoring 240 runs in 7 matches at an average of 34.28. His explosive style and consistent performance make him a key asset for CSK's batting lineup.
Emerging Talents in the Middle Order
Rahul Patel may have played only 3 games, but his ability to score 68 runs with remarkable poise indicates he could become a crucial part of CSK's future middle-order stability. His resilience could further bolster the team's batting strength.
Bowling Assets
Among bowlers, Noor Ahmad emerged as CSK’s leading wicket-taker in IPL 2025 with 24 wickets from 14 matches, justifying his hefty price tag of Rs 10 crore. His reliable wicket-taking capability makes him indispensable for the upcoming season.
Andre Siddarth: A Hidden Gem
Uncapped talent Andre Siddarth was signed cheaply for Rs 30 lakh and, despite not playing last season, has shown promise in domestic cricket that suggests he may be a valuable addition to the squad in the future.
Player Performance Overview
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Wickets | Price |
|---|
| Dewald Brevis | 6 | 225 | 37.50 | - | Rs 2.2 crore |
| Ayush Mhatre | 7 | 240 | 34.28 | - | Not disclosed |
| Rahul Patel | 3 | 68 | - | - | Not disclosed |
| Noor Ahmad | 14 | - | - | 24 | Rs 10 crore |
| Andre Siddarth | 0 | - | - | - | Rs 30 lakh |
As CSK contemplates their roster for IPL 2026, retaining these young talents seems essential for not only rebuilding their squad but also reigniting their competitive spirit in the tournament.