The five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) endured a difficult campaign in IPL 2025, finishing at the bottom of the points table with just four wins. Moreover, their campaign was also hit by the injury
to their skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had to miss half of the season due to an elbow fracture. MS Dhoni took over as captain once again, but it could not change the fortunes for the five-time champions in 2025.
Ahead of IPL 2026, the franchise is looking to revamp its squad and return to its winning ways. As part of this rebuilding process, CSK may consider trading a few players with other teams before the auction. Here, let us take a look at three players the franchise could target for trades.
Here are 3 players whom CSK might trade before IPL 2026 auction
Devon Conway
CSK opener Devon Conway could be among the first to be traded. The left-handed batter scored only 156 runs in six innings at a modest strike rate, despite being bought for INR 6.25 crore in the mega auction. His inability to consistently provide quick starts at the top often left CSK struggling with the run rate in crucial matches.
To strengthen the top order, the franchise may look for a more aggressive overseas opener capable of giving a strong start and maintaining momentum from the outset. With Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis doing a fantastic job for the franchise in little opportunities they got last season, the franchise may turn its head from the New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter.
Vijay Shankar
The middle-order batter Vijay Shankar was another disappointment for CSK in IPL 2025. In five innings, he managed 118 runs at a strike rate below 130. His slow scoring frequently disrupted the team’s rhythm in the middle overs, preventing others from playing their natural game and forcing the side to adopt a defensive approach.
As a result, the Chennai-based franchise could consider trading him in search of a dynamic all-rounder who can accelerate scoring and provide stability during the crucial middle-overs.
Shreyas Gopal
Karnataka leg-spinning all-rounder Shreyas Gopal is another potential trade candidate. He did not feature much in IPL 2025, as CSK relied on the consistent performances of Ravindra Jadeja and Noor Ahmad in the middle overs. Moreover, he brought into the mix only when Ravichandran Ashwin went through a rough time with the ball.
Gopal brings valuable IPL experience, having maintained an economy rate of 8.16, and his four-over spells have regularly been game-changers. However, with the current spin resources performing well, CSK may consider trading him and investing in a promising domestic spinner who can be groomed for the future.
