Chennai Super Kings release list tops IPL 2026 Mini-Auction has opened the door to a bidding war, especially with several players returning to the auction pool. With CSK releasing Rs 43.40 crore, many of their released players, especially those who have performed well in high-pressure situations in the past, fit perfectly into the current team requirements of both RCB and MI. CSK retained their senior core and young talent while releasing several domestic and foreign names.
RCB has a strong purse and many slots including overseas positions. The defending champions will look to fill the void, and the various players released by CSK directly match their requirements. Meanwhile, MI have Rs 2.75 crore and five slots. The five-time champions, looking to end their trophy drought, will target names released by CSK who offer multi-skill value. However, their limited budget will lead them to choose selective options.
Here are 3 released CSK players who could start a bidding war between RCB and MI in the auction
3. Deepak Hooda
Indian cricketer Deepak Hooda Enters the 2026 auction as an all-round option, has IPL experience, continues to look for success. His ability to cross the ropes made headlines early in his career, earning him a whopping Rs 4.2 crore deal in the 2016 auction after an impressive debut season with Rajasthan Royals. Hooda's three-dimensional skill set earned him a long stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad, and he made valuable contributions during their 2016 title-winning campaign.
His career then took him to Lucknow Super Giants, where he enjoyed a breakout season in 2022 and even earned an India call-up after scoring a T20I century against Ireland. But inconsistency and limited opportunities hampered his progress, leading to a dip in form and a disappointing 2023 IPL season. After being released by LSG, he was picked up by CSK for 2025. However, last season also did not go as he wanted. As the 30-year-old re-enters the auction, RCB and MI could include him in their roster to boost their Indian core.
2. Rachin Ravindra
Young all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra, is another name that CSK has let go, and that too could create a potential bidding war between the teams. Despite moments of promise in two seasons, CSK decided to move on from the New Zealand all-rounder after a modest 2025 campaign, where he scored 191 runs at a strike rate of 128.18. The franchise's plans to move towards building a young batting unit ultimately left Ravindra out of their long-term plans.
But Ravindra's upside side makes him an attractive target. His ability to attack in the power play, open the innings and occasionally bowl left arm spin makes him a good buy. With both RCB and MI having slots available for an overseas player, Ravindra may find a new home, especially with these two franchises.
1. Mathisha Pathirana
right arm fast bowler Mathisha PathiranaHis release from Chennai Super Kings has instantly made him one of the most attractive names ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Despite having retained Rs 13 crore last season, CSK decided to move on following his dip in form and persistent injuries. Nevertheless, the Sri Lankan fast bowler's skill makes him a valuable addition. His powerful action, yorker and proven record as a death overs specialist in T20 makes him a player to watch out for.
This is where MI and RCB would like to acquire. MI, even with a small purse, is desperate for a specialist death bowler after restructuring their squad through trades. Meanwhile, RCB are entering the auction with ample money and a clear need for an overseas fast bowler to complete their attack. Since both teams are targeting the same role, Pathirana could spark a fierce bidding war, despite CSK still hoping to buy him back at a low price.
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