On paper, Chennai Super Kings have luxury of the second-biggest purse at the auction, INR 43.40 crore with nine slots to fill, four of them overseas – but that money has to replace Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Devon Conway, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Matheesha Pathirana in one cycle. CSK is expected to pursue targeted acquisitions, especially following the withdrawal of key overseas players like Glenn Maxwell. Ashwin on his youtube channel highlighted that the franchise’s priority would be securing an Indian all-rounder, most likely Venkatesh Iyer, followed by an overseas all-rounder, with Liam Livingstone identified as a key option. Here are three players CSK will target in the IPL Mini auction.
1.Liam Livingstone
Liam Livingstone has been in great form in recent T20 leagues. He is an aggressive batter in the middle order and can bowl some overs of spin. Chennai Super Kings will be looking at him to give them more depth. A finisher who can also bowl spin will suit their style at home. Livingstone has scored 1051 runs in 49 IPL matches at a strike rate of 158.
2.Venkatesh Iyer
The 30-year-old batter from Madhya Pradesh was recently released by three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Bought by the franchise for a massive INR 23.75 crore, Iyer struggled last season, scoring just 142 runs in seven innings. Venkatesh Iyer could be one who will be targeted by CSK considering they are looking for another middle order option. He can also bowl a feq overs of medium pace. Iyer has played 135 T20s, amassing 3094 runs at an average of 34 with a strike rate of 138, including 17 fifties and one century.
3. Ravi Bishnoi
Bishnoi had a disappointing IPL 2025 season with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), taking just nine wickets in 11 matches at an average of 44.55 and an economy of 10.83. But the leg spinner has a proven track record and is a quality bowler who will bounce back. Bishnoi has played 42 T20Is for India, claiming 61 wickets at an average of 19.37, a strike rate of 15.8, and an economy of 7.35, with best figures of 4/13. With Ravindra Jadeja released and Ashwin retired, CSK are lacking spin options and he will be a good fit in for this side.
