Ruturaj Gaikwad will remain captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2026 Indian Premier League. The franchise put an end to rumours that Sanju Samson may be the captain by writing, “Lead the way, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad,” in a social media post.
Samson was acquired by CSK from the Rajasthan Royals in return for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Despite his extensive IPL captaincy experience, he will not be the team’s leader. However, he is expected to start the innings.
LEAD THE WAY, CAPTAIN RUTURAJ GAIKWAD!💪🦁#WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/EawvX5k2yI
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 15, 2025
At the beginning of IPL 2024, Gaikwad succeeded MS Dhoni as captain. The IPL 2023 champions, CSK, placed fifth in 2024 and tenth in 2025.
CSK also released Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Matheesha Pathirana in addition to Jadeja and Curran. With a maximum of eight openings, including four overseas, and a purse of INR 43.40 crore, they are prepared for the auction.
To replace Curran, they are probably going to look for an international all-rounder in the auction, which is set for December 16 at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena. For Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone, or Cameron Green, they have the money to go hammer and tongs. They’ll also try to sign Nathan Ellis’ backup.
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