After Jadeja, CSK releases Conway and Rachin for youth rebuild

In a major overhaul following a disappointing IPL 2025 season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have officially released New Zealand internationals Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra from their squad, signalling a fresh, youth-focused rebuild ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. The five-time champions finished last in the previous season, prompting significant roster changes to rejuvenate the team.

Conway, a linchpin of CSK’s line-up since 2022, was purchased for Rs 6.25 crore last year. Despite a stellar 2023 season where he scored 672 runs with six fifties at an impressive strike rate near 140, Conway struggled with form in 2025 due to injury layoffs, managing only 156 runs in six innings at an average of 26.00. His teammate Rachin Ravindra, acquired for Rs 4 crore via the right-to-match card, also faltered with inconsistency, scoring 191 runs in eight innings at 27.28, despite showing initial promise.

The decision to part ways with both players aligns with CSK’s strategy to prioritise emerging young talent who impressed during last season’s campaign. Uncapped Indian batsmen Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel, alongside South African prodigy Dewald Brevis, seized opportunities as mid-season signings, providing fresh impetus with aggressive batting styles. Mhatre scored 240 runs in seven innings at a scorching strike rate of 188.97, while Brevis contributed 225 runs at a strike rate of 180.00, underscoring the franchise’s focus on explosive youth talent.

Adding to the reshuffle, CSK has struck a blockbuster trade deal with Rajasthan Royals that will swap all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and pacer Sam Curran for Royals’ wicketkeeper-captain Sanju Samson. This trade is poised to bring new leadership dynamics to CSK, with Samson potentially succeeding the legendary MS Dhoni as captain and wicketkeeper in the coming seasons. The trade awaits official announcement following BCCI approval and final procedural formalities around the retention deadline.

With the IPL 2026 auction set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, CSK’s revamped squad-building approach aims to blend promising young talent with strategic acquisitions, stepping away from big-money signings that underperformed in recent seasons.