Renowned spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has outlined his predicted lineup for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2026 season. The five-time champions are set to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their opening match on March 30.
Ashwin’s selection for the top three includes Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Following them are Shivam Dube at number four, Dewald Brevis at five, and Prashant Veer at six. MS Dhoni, taking the wicketkeeper role, is placed at seven. Jamie Overton is picked for the eighth position, with Noor Ahmed, Matt Henry, and Khaleel Ahmed filling the ninth to eleventh spots. Ashwin also suggested three potential impact players: Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal, and Rahul Chahar.
Ashwin’s CSK playing XII for IPL 2026 (via ‘Ash ki Baat‘): Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni (WK), Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmed, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed. Impact player – Anshul Kamboj/Shreyas Gopal/Rahul Chahar.
Ravichandran Ashwin on CSK’s Bowling Challenges in IPL 2026
Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concerns regarding the potential bowling challenges CSK could face in the IPL 2026 season. He pointed out the need to identify bowlers for the middle and death overs, noting that while the powerplay bowling is well-covered, the strategic use of Noor Ahmed will be crucial. If Noor Ahmed bowls during the powerplay, Ashwin suggests that an additional leg-spinner, such as Shreyas Gopal or Rahul Chahar, might be necessary for the middle overs.
“I have my doubts on who will partner Noor Ahmed in the middle overs in this bowling line-up. And in the death. I am not worried for the powerplay. CSK have addressed both batting and bowling powerplay. Matt Henry is probably the best new-ball bowler in the market right now. If Anshul is not playing, you can also have Noor bowl an over in the powerplay. That is covered. Ruturaj has his task cut out. If you have to use Noor in the powerplay, then you have only three overs of his through the middle. His deployment will be a little difficult. So it is important to play Rahul Chahar or Gopal as the impact sub,” he explained.
“The big problem is you have two bowlers in the powerplay. If you use Anshul even he can bowl there. But if you play these three, you have to bowl all six with them. If you use Noor in the powerplay, then you are hamstrung. If that is the plan, then you better play another leg-spinner who will bowl the middle overs,” he added.
Ashwin further suggested that Shivam Dube could be utilized for an over or two, but CSK must find a strategy to manage the powerplay without relying on Noor Ahmed. He emphasized that Noor Ahmed’s success in taking wickets and maintaining control throughout the season would be vital for CSK’s performance.
“They will use Shivam Dube. He can be your sixth or seventh bowler, maybe for an over or two. But making the most of the middle overs with Noor is the key. If he controls the middle overs and gets you wickets throughout the season, that is how CSK will be able to really push for a case. They will have to find a way to get the fifth and sixth over away with someone in the powerplay,” he said.
After finishing last in the IPL 2025, CSK is eager to deliver a stronger performance in the upcoming season.
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Edited by Rishab Vm
