Anil Kumble believes Chennai Super Kings must move on from ageing players and rebuild around younger talent after trading Ravindra Jadeja.
Former India captain Anil Kumble believes Chennai Super Kings must shift towards younger players as they rebuild for IPL 2026 after finishing last in the 2025 season. He pointed to Ravindra Jadeja’s move to Rajasthan Royals as a sign that CSK are ready to refresh their core.
Kumble expects the batting group to centre around Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube in the top six. He also highlighted the need for upgrades in the bowling attack after Matheesha Pathirana’s exit. With Nathan Ellis and Khaleel Ahmed set to lead the pace unit, Kumble said CSK must add an Indian spinner to replace Jadeja and consider signing another overseas fast bowler for better balance.
“CSK will likely build their batting core around captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube in the top six. They need to move beyond their ageing stars, as shown by the trade move of Ravindra Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals,” stated Kumble while speaking on a show on Jiostar.
“Their bowling needs strengthening after releasing Pathirana. Nathan Ellis becomes crucial as their overseas fast bowler, with Noor Ahmad as the wrist spinner. They still require an Indian spinner to replace Jadeja and more Indian fast bowlers alongside Khaleel Ahmed. Another overseas fast bowler would also help balance their attack,” he added.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Return as CSK Captain Welcomed
Anil Kumble also welcomed Ruturaj Gaikwad’s return as Chennai Super Kings captain for IPL 2026. He suggested that Gaikwad partner either Ayush Mhatre or Sanju Samson at the top, noting that the skipper is most effective in that role.
“It’s great to see Ruturaj Gaikwad back as captain of the Chennai Super Kings after his injury last season. My clear advice to him is to open the batting himself. While they have Sanju Samson and the promising Ayush Mhatre, Ruturaj is best suited as an opener for CSK. His leadership and batting at the top will provide the stability the team needs,” Kumble concluded.
READ ALSO | CSK’s Opening Pair for IPL 2026? Aakash Chopra Drops This Player From the List
CSK enter the mini-auction with 16 players retained, nine squad vacancies and a remaining purse of INR 43.4 crore.
This article follows WicketWatcher’s editorial standards. Learn more in our Editorial Policy or report an issue via our Corrections Policy.