With just a month to go for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mini auction, the trade rumours are already abuzz. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have found themselves at the centre of attention, with speculation surrounding the likes of Sanju Samson and Washington Sundar. However, the franchise has cleared the air via a cheeky video, featuring their CEO, Kasi Viswanathan and mascot Leo.
One of the biggest talking points has been about Sanju Samson’s possible switch to the Chennai Super Kings. The Rajasthan Royals captain, who has been with the franchise for several years, is rumoured to be seeking a new challenge, sparking discussions about a potential move south. Social media chatter also suggested that CSK are in talks with the Gujarat
Titans to fetch Washington Sundar to fill the void left by all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin.
Eventually, CSK decided to clear the air in their trademark humorous style. In the video, CEO Kasi Viswanathan jokingly referred to a wild rumour suggesting he was being traded to Punjab Kings in exchange for Preity Zinta, putting an entertaining full stop to the ongoing speculation.
The message given in the video was: “Trade rumours are subject to mental health risks. Wait till the official announcement for sanity.”
We heard your questions 💬
Here’s Kasi Sir’s a̶n̶s̶w̶e̶r̶ twist! 😂Use #LeoHotline and ask your questions! 💛👇 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/59gBKCrr2L
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 8, 2025
CSK will be without R Ashwin, who retired from international cricket last year and ended his IPL career earlier in 2025. His absence adds ₹9.75 crore to CSK’s purse, giving them more room to strengthen their spin attack.
The team will also aim to fix their middle-order, which struggled to turn starts into big scores last season.
Meanwhile, MS Dhoni is set to continue playing for CSK in IPL 2026. The 44-year-old, retained as an uncapped player last year, took charge of the team midway through the season after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury.
