Chennai Super Kings’ aggressive squad-building at the IPL 2026 auction has reignited speculation around MS Dhoni’s future, with the franchise now boasting three specialist wicketkeepers alongside their long-time captain.
CSK walked out of the auction with a clear message that the transition phase is no longer theoretical. With Sanju Samson set as the starting wicketkeeper, Kartik Sharma bought for a massive ₹14.2 crore, and Urvil Patel retained as a high-impact backup, the squad appears structurally prepared for life beyond Dhoni. To top it up, they also snapped up another uncapped player, an all-rounder in Prashant Veer, who was touted by us to go to CSK even before the auction. The two bids feature among the top buys at the IPL 2026 auction.
Wicketkeepers in CSK squad after Kartik Sharma bid:
- MS Dhoni
- Kartik Sharma
- Sanju Samson
- Urvil Patel
Is MS Dhoni Retiring Ahead Of IPL 2026?
MS Dhoni was retained by CSK for ₹4 crore as an uncapped player before the 2025 mega auction itself, following the BCCI’s revived rule that allows players who haven’t featured in international cricket for five years to be treated as uncapped. While the retention itself was expected, the surrounding squad composition has shifted the narrative.
For the first time in recent seasons, CSK are not dependent on Dhoni for either wicketkeeping or finishing duties. His role now appears more strategic and situational rather than structural.
How CSK Wicketkeeping Drama Will Play Out in IPL 2026
Now, if MS Dhoni plays, he will anyway take the gloves, but do they really need him to start anymore? Dhoni can easily take on a mentor role now that the line-up is more or less sorted.
Sanju Samson Could Be First-Choice Wicketkeeper For CSK
The trade for Sanju Samson before the auction was CSK’s most decisive move. Bought in for ₹18 crore, Samson is expected to start every match as the primary wicketkeeper-batter. His presence immediately removes the need for Dhoni behind the stumps and allows CSK to balance their XI without carrying a specialist keeper purely for experience.
From a squad-planning perspective, Samson’s arrival is the strongest indicator yet that CSK are planning beyond Dhoni, not around him.
Who Is Kartik Sharma? CSK’s ₹14.2 Crore Bet At IPL 2026 Auction
Kartik Sharma is an uncapped Indian wicketkeeper-batter who emerged as one of the most talked-about names at the IPL 2026 auction after Chennai Super Kings spent a staggering ₹14.2 crore to secure his services. The bid made him the joint most expensive uncapped player in IPL auction history, a clear indication of how highly CSK rate his potential.
Unlike traditional wicketkeepers, Kartik Sharma’s primary value lies in his batting. He is viewed as a middle-order power-hitter rather than a top-order accumulator, with CSK identifying him as a long-term finisher who can operate at No.5 or No.6. His ability to clear the ropes consistently and maintain a high strike rate under pressure was a major factor behind CSK’s aggressive bidding.
CSK’s interest in Kartik also stems from his composure in crunch situations, a trait the franchise has historically prioritised. While he does offer wicketkeeping skills, he is not expected to compete with Sanju Samson for the gloves. Instead, Kartik’s role is likely to mirror the finishing blueprint CSK have relied on for years — entering late, absorbing pressure, and closing games.
The timing of his signing is crucial. With MS Dhoni nearing the end of his IPL career, Kartik Sharma represents a future-facing investment rather than a stopgap option. CSK’s willingness to spend big on an uncapped finisher suggests they see him as a core piece of the squad for multiple seasons, not just IPL 2026.
In many ways, Kartik Sharma’s arrival symbolises CSK’s transition strategy: retaining experience at the top, while quietly installing the next generation in roles that once revolved around Dhoni.
Urvil Patel Provides Explosive Depth In CSK Squad
Urvil Patel remains a high-upside reserve option. Retained after joining CSK as an injury replacement last season, Urvil has continued to strengthen his credentials in domestic cricket. His recent 31-ball hundred in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, along with multiple record-breaking centuries across formats, highlights his ability to change games rapidly.
Despite his form, Urvil is expected to start the season as a backup rather than a guaranteed XI member, providing CSK with insurance rather than selection pressure.
