The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) endured a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, finishing eighth in the 10-team points table. Under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, the five-time champions managed only six wins in 14 league matches and failed to qualify for the playoffs for the third consecutive season. The poor campaign has forced the franchise to rethink its plans ahead of IPL 2027.
CSK have already begun making changes, starting with the departure of long-time head coach Stephen Fleming, who was with the franchise from 2009 until the end of IPL 2026. The management is now focused on building a stronger squad for next season. According to reports, the franchise has called all its players for fitness assessments before finalizing its retention strategy.
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CSK to Prioritize Fitness for IPL 2027
A franchise source reportedly said, “Fitness will be one of the biggest factors in deciding the squad for IPL 2027. We want players who are available throughout the season and can contribute consistently.” Injuries to several key players disrupted CSK’s campaign in IPL 2026, and the management is determined to avoid a similar situation next year.
One of the biggest names who could miss out is legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni. The former CSK captain missed the entire IPL 2026 season after suffering calf and thumb injuries during the team’s pre-season camp. At 44 years of age, Dhoni has also dealt with recurring knee and calf problems over the last few seasons. Releasing him would also free up ₹4 crore in the salary purse ahead of the next auction.
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Injury Concerns Cloud CSK Trio’s Future
Australian all-rounder Matthew Short is another player under scrutiny. His recent injury record includes a quad injury in early 2025, a side strain later that year, a finger injury before India’s T20I series, and a fractured thumb during IPL 2026. The repeated setbacks meant he featured in only three matches for CSK despite being signed as a versatile all-round option.
Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis could also be released after an injury-hit campaign. Retained for ₹2 crore, Ellis was expected to lead CSK’s pace attack, especially during the middle and death overs. However, a hamstring injury ruled him out for the remainder of the season, leaving the bowling unit without its experienced overseas leader.
Spencer Johnson, who replaced Ellis in the squad, also struggled with fitness. The left-arm pacer joined the team after recovering from a back injury, which delayed his arrival. He played only three matches, taking two wickets while conceding runs at an economy rate of 10.18. His performances suggested that he was still not fully fit during the tournament.
Indian left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed also endured a frustrating season. He picked up just two wickets in five matches before suffering a right quadriceps injury that ruled him out of the tournament. Reports later revealed that he required around 10 to 12 weeks for recovery, raising doubts about his long-term fitness.
Another source close to the franchise reportedly said, “Availability is just as important as ability. Injuries hurt our balance throughout IPL 2026, and the management wants a squad that can stay fit for an entire season.” CSK believe a healthier squad will give them a better chance of returning to the playoffs after three disappointing years.
The final retention list is expected to depend heavily on the results of the ongoing fitness assessments. While players like Dhoni, Matthew Short, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, and Khaleel Ahmed have all contributed to CSK in different ways, their recent injury concerns could influence the franchise’s decisions. With IPL 2027 on the horizon, the Super Kings appear ready to prioritize fitness, consistency, and long-term squad planning as they aim to return to title contention.
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