IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings Contemplates Releasing Four Key Players Ahead Of Mega Auction

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced an early exit from the IPL 2024, succumbing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 18. This marks only the fourth time in their history that CSK has failed to reach the playoffs.

The season was notable for several reasons, including Ruturaj Gaikwad taking over captaincy from MS Dhoni. The team also introduced some promising talents ahead of the season. However, their overall performance was moderate. Indian players like Shivam Dube and Tushar Deshpande excelled, while veterans such as Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur had a less impressive run.

Among the foreign players, pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana stood out, whereas Daryl Mitchell did not meet expectations. With the season concluded, CSK is likely already planning for the next season and beyond.

With a mega auction on the horizon, CSK will need to decide on player retentions and releases. Although it's early days, here are four players CSK might consider releasing ahead of the auction.

Daryl Mitchell

Daryl Mitchell was signed by CSK for Rs 14 crore after an impressive World Cup 2023. However, he managed only 318 runs with a strike rate of 142 this season. Given his performance, CSK may look to allocate those funds elsewhere.

Sameer Rizvi

Sameer Rizvi was expected to be a standout player for CSK in IPL 2024. The franchise paid Rs 8.4 crore for the young talent from Uttar Pradesh Premier League. Unfortunately, Rizvi scored just 51 runs across five innings. While he has potential, CSK might test his value in the auction again.

Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur had a challenging season, picking up only five wickets in nine matches. Acquired for Rs 4 crore, Thakur's performance did not meet expectations. It seems likely that CSK will consider releasing him before the next auction.

Deepak Chahar

Deepak Chahar's recurring injuries have been a concern for CSK. Despite a moderate start to the season, another injury sidelined him. Given his high cost and limited returns over recent seasons, CSK might contemplate offloading him ahead of the mega auction.