The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are reportedly planning to release England all-rounder Sam Curran ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. According to Cricbuzz, players like Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, and Devon Conway may also be released as the franchise looks to revamp its squad after finishing tenth in the IPL 2025 season.
With Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement freeing up ₹9.75 crore, CSK are expected to target big names such as Cameron Green. However, releasing Sam Curran might not be a wise decision. Despite a modest 2025 season where he scored 114 runs and took one wicket, Curran brings immense value through his experience, versatility, and leadership. In this article, we look at three reasons why CSK should retain him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Offers Experience, Stability, And Leadership
Sam Curran’s vast T20 experience makes him an asset for any franchise. Having featured in over 300 T20 matches, the English all-rounder has scored 4,825 runs at a strike rate of 137.66 and taken 291 wickets, including four five-wicket hauls. His consistent performances in global leagues such as ILT20, SA20, and The Hundred highlight his adaptability to different conditions. Notably, he helped Oval Invincibles lift *The Hundred 2025* trophy earlier this year.
Curran’s IPL record also stands out, with 997 runs and 59 wickets in 64 matches, including a standout 2020/21 season for CSK where he bagged 13 wickets and scored 186 runs. With Jamie Overton as the only seam-bowling all-rounder in the current squad, CSK’s need for someone like Curran is clear. His leadership qualities add further value, as he has captained Punjab Kings in the past, winning five of 11 matches. With MS Dhoni’s retirement on the horizon and Ruturaj Gaikwad prone to injuries, Curran can serve as a reliable backup leader.
Lack Of Quality Seam-Bowling All-Rounders Available
Another reason to retain Curran is the scarcity of top-tier seam-bowling all-rounders ahead of the 2026 auction. Players like Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Romario Shepherd are expected to be retained by their respective franchises. While Cameron Green is likely to attract heavy bidding, other available options like Kyle Mayers and Nathan Smith may not offer the same balance or consistency.
If CSK release Curran, they risk being left with limited options and may have to settle for a one-dimensional player. Moreover, as teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings are also expected to strengthen their all-round departments, the competition for quality seam all-rounders will be intense.
An Absolute Bargain Buy For CSK
CSK’s decision to buy Sam Curran for ₹2.4 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction was a smart move, especially considering that Punjab Kings previously paid ₹18.5 crore for him in 2023 and 2024. Releasing him now will not significantly boost CSK’s purse, and it will be nearly impossible to find a player of his caliber for a similar price.
Curran also proved his consistency with Punjab, scoring 276 and 270 runs and taking 10 and 16 wickets in consecutive seasons before joining CSK. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in both departments makes him a valuable investment. Given his experience, skill, and affordability, retaining Sam Curran would be a strategic decision for CSK as they aim to rebuild and chase a record sixth IPL title in 2026.
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