In a bold pre-auction prediction, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed that Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer will be “100 per cent on the radar of CSK” in the upcoming IPL 2026 mini-auction. The statement comes amid reports of a blockbuster trade deal that sees Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran moving to Rajasthan Royals, leaving significant gaps in CSK’s middle order and all-rounder department.
Ashwin’s insights, shared on his YouTube channel and widely reported across sports media, have sparked intense speculation about CSK’s auction strategy and the franchise’s roadmap for rebuilding after the departure of two of its most dynamic players.
CSK’s Trade Shake-Up: Jadeja and Curran Exit
The reported trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals has sent shockwaves through the IPL ecosystem. Both players were instrumental in CSK’s recent campaigns, contributing with bat, ball, and leadership.
| Player | Role | IPL 2025 Stats | New Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ravindra Jadeja | All-rounder | 14 matches, 240 runs, 12 wickets | Rajasthan Royals |
| Sam Curran | All-rounder | 13 matches, 198 runs, 10 wickets | Rajasthan Royals |
Their exit creates a vacuum in CSK’s lineup, particularly in the middle order and spin-bowling all-rounder slot—areas where both Rana and Iyer could fit seamlessly.
Ashwin’s Prediction: Rana and Iyer as CSK Targets
Ashwin believes that CSK will aggressively pursue Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer, both left-handed batters with proven IPL credentials and the versatility to bat in multiple positions.
| Player | Batting Style | IPL 2025 Performance | Suitability for CSK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitish Rana | Left-hand bat | 11 matches, 312 runs | No. 3 anchor, spin-friendly |
| Venkatesh Iyer | Left-hand bat | 12 matches, 278 runs | Power-hitter, part-time bowler |
Ashwin emphasized that both players are well-suited for Chepauk’s slow surface and could complement Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson, who are expected to open for CSK if the trade materializes.
CSK’s Potential Lineup Post-Auction
| Position | Player (Projected) |
|---|---|
| Openers | Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson |
| No. 3 | Nitish Rana or Venkatesh Iyer |
| Middle Order | Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni (mentor role) |
| All-rounders | Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali |
| Bowlers | Deepak Chahar, Maheesh Theekshana, Mukesh Choudhary |
This lineup reflects a shift toward a younger, more aggressive batting unit while retaining CSK’s core bowling strength.
Strategic Fit: Why Rana and Iyer Make Sense
Ashwin’s rationale is grounded in tactical needs:
- Left-handed balance in a predominantly right-handed batting order
- Spin adaptability for Chepauk’s turning track
- Leadership potential and IPL experience
- Flexibility to bat at No. 3 or as floaters
Auction Dynamics and Budget Outlook
CSK is expected to enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction with a purse of ₹28–32 crore, depending on final trade settlements. Rana and Iyer could command bids in the ₹6–9 crore range, making them viable targets.
| Player | Base Price (Expected) | Auction Value (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Nitish Rana | ₹1 crore | ₹7–8 crore |
| Venkatesh Iyer | ₹1 crore | ₹6–9 crore |
Fan Reactions and Franchise Buzz
CSK fans have expressed mixed emotions over Jadeja’s departure but are optimistic about the franchise’s future. Social media is abuzz with speculation, and Ashwin’s comments have added fuel to the fire.
Franchise insiders suggest that CSK is looking to rebuild with a focus on youth, flexibility, and match-winning temperament—qualities both Rana and Iyer possess.
Conclusion
With Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran reportedly heading to Rajasthan Royals, CSK faces a pivotal moment in its team-building journey. Ravichandran Ashwin’s prediction that Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer will be “100 per cent on CSK’s radar” offers a compelling glimpse into the franchise’s auction strategy. As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, all eyes will be on how CSK reshapes its squad to remain a title contender.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly reported statements and media coverage. Final auction decisions and player trades are subject to official confirmation by IPL authorities and franchises.
