Former CSK star Suresh Raina has shared his take on Chennai’s retention strategy for IPL 2026. While backing a few key performers as vital to the squad, he also hinted that the franchise could revamp some positions during the mini-auction. He commented amid growing buzz over a potential blockbuster trade, with Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson linked to Chennai and fan-favourite Ravindra Jadeja possibly heading to Rajasthan.
Suresh Raina spoke about the players who should be retained by the franchise. He is confident that MS Dhoni will play in IPL 2026.
Every IPL retention cycle brings renewed talk about MS Dhoni’s next step. But CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told India Today they believe their ‘Thala’ will return in 2026.
Raina backed Ruturaj Gaikwad to retain the captaincy for Chennai Super Kings.
“MS Dhoni must be retained since he played last season, so he should remain with the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad should continue as captain,” Raina said on JioStar.
“Ravindra Jadeja should stay with the team. He’s been a match-winner for CSK and has consistently performed for the team over the years,” he added. All ten IPL franchises are set to reveal their lists of retained and released players on November 15, the official retention deadline day.