3 Players CSK must release to win IPL 2027 trophy

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the proudest franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Yellow Army have won five IPL titles and hold the joint record for the most trophies in the competition alongside the Mumbai Indians (MI). However, the 2026 season was one to forget for the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side, as they managed just six wins in 14 matches, accumulated 12 points, and missed out on a playoff spot by a considerable margin.

With the IPL 2027 auction approaching, CSK have overhauled their coaching staff. However, they also need to make a few changes to their squad to strengthen their chances of winning the title in the upcoming season. Here are three players CSK must release to free up funds and build a stronger squad for IPL 2027.

#1 Matt Short

Matt Short is an excellent asset in white-ball cricket. The Australian all-rounder has scored 2,466 runs in 95 Big Bash League (BBL) matches at a strike rate of 141.88, including two centuries and 17 half-centuries. He also has 38 wickets to his name at an economy rate of 7.64 in the competition. However, he has struggled to replicate that form in the IPL.

In three matches last season, Short scored just 60 runs at an average of 20.00 and a strike rate of 117.64. He also bowled in two matches, conceding runs at an economy rate of 12.31 without picking up a wicket. Releasing him would free up INR 1.5 crore for CSK.

#2 Matt Henry

CSK signed Matt Henry for INR 2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. However, the New Zealand pacer failed to justify his price tag. In three matches last season, Henry picked up just two wickets at an average of 65.00 and an economy rate of 13.00.

His T20I record also suggests that the right-arm pacer has yet to establish himself as a consistent performer in the shortest format. Therefore, CSK could consider releasing Henry and looking for a more effective new-ball bowler who can provide greater potency to their pace attack.

#3 Rahul Chahar

CSK should also consider releasing Rahul Chahar, as it could be difficult for him to secure a place in their playing XI. The franchise already has Noor Ahmad and Akeal Hosein, both of whom showcased their credentials last season. In addition, CSK have acquired Liam Livingstone from Sunrisers Hyderabad through a trade, giving them another useful spin-bowling option.

Furthermore, releasing Rahul would free up INR 5.2 crore, allowing CSK to utilise those funds to make valuable additions to their squad at the upcoming auction.