CSK IPL 2026: MS Dhoni, Jadeja Likely to Exit as Prithvi Shaw Set to Join – Predicted Squad Revealed

Big Changes Ahead for CSK: Dhoni and Jadeja Likely Out, Prithvi Shaw In for IPL 2026.

With IPL 2026 on the horizon, big changes are expected in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp. Iconic captain MS Dhoni and senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja may be on their way out, while explosive opener Prithvi Shaw is rumored to join the five-time champions. Fans are eagerly anticipating how the franchise will reshape its squad after a rollercoaster IPL 2025 season.

MS Dhoni’s Future with CSK: End of an Era?

MS Dhoni, the face of CSK since the inception of the IPL, returned to captaincy during IPL 2025 due to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury. However, reports suggest Dhoni might not feature in the 2026 season. Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja hinted that Dhoni has “no desire” to continue as the mainstay in the playing XI, sparking speculation that he may step into a mentor or backroom role.

Ravindra Jadeja Set for Exit?

Ravindra Jadeja, another CSK stalwart, delivered strong performances in 2024 but saw a dip in form in 2025. Sources close to the franchise hint at a possible mutual decision to part ways ahead of the next mega auction, as CSK eyes a fresh core to build a team for the future.

Prithvi Shaw to Open for CSK?

Aggressive opener Prithvi Shaw has emerged as a top target for CSK. Known for his explosive starts, Shaw could bring much-needed firepower to the top order, especially with Devon Conway’s form wavering in recent seasons. His addition could signal a bold shift in CSK’s batting strategy.

Predicted CSK Squad for IPL 2026

Here’s a likely CSK squad for IPL 2026, combining retained stars, new signings, and emerging talent:

Player	Role
Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)	Right-Hand Batter
Prithvi Shaw	Right-Hand Batter
Shivam Dube	Batting All-Rounder
Deepak Hooda	Batting All-Rounder
Moeen Ali	All-Rounder (Spin)
Ben Stokes	All-Rounder (Pace)
MS Dhoni (Mentor)	–
Matheesha Pathirana	Fast Bowler
Maheesh Theekshana	Spinner
Tushar Deshpande	Fast Bowler
Mukesh Choudhary	Fast Bowler
Nishant Sindhu	All-Rounder (Spin)
Simarjeet Singh	Fast Bowler
Shaik Rasheed	Batter
Rachin Ravindra	All-Rounder
Sameer Rizvi	Batter
Dwaine Pretorius	All-Rounder
Ajay Mandal	Spinner

What’s Next for CSK?

CSK’s strategy for IPL 2026 seems focused on building a younger, more aggressive core while maintaining leadership stability under Ruturaj Gaikwad. With Prithvi Shaw likely to add firepower at the top and the potential reshuffle of long-serving legends, the upcoming season may mark the beginning of a new era in CSK history.

Stay tuned for more updates on player retention, IPL 2026 auction strategies, and official squad announcements.