Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Mohit Sharma has unveiled his all-time playing XI for the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season, sparking discussion among fans with a few notable selections and omissions. The experienced seamer shared his choices during a conversation on Cricbuzz, putting together a star-studded lineup dominated by players who played crucial roles in CSK’s most successful years.
Interestingly, Mohit chose to leave out former CSK opener Murali Vijay, despite the batter’s strong record for the franchise. Vijay scored 1708 runs in 70 innings for Chennai and was part of several memorable campaigns, but Mohit opted for a different opening combination to start his all-time side.
Mohit Sharma’s all-time CSK playing XI
A solid opening pair
Mohit picked former Australian stalwart Michael Hussey and current CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad as his opening duo. Hussey was one of the most dependable batters in the early years of the franchise and played 50 matches for CSK, amassing 1768 runs that included 13 half-centuries and a century. Known for his calm presence and consistency, Hussey played a key role in strengthening the top order during Chennai’s dominant phase.
Joining him at the top is Gaikwad, one of the modern pillars of the franchise. Since making his debut in 2020, the elegant right-hander has become a central figure in CSK’s batting lineup. Gaikwad has scored 2502 runs in 70 innings for the team, registering 20 fifties and two centuries while leading the side in the current era.
Star power in the middle order
At number three, Mohit selected former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who was instrumental in multiple successful campaigns for Chennai. Du Plessis scored 2721 runs for the franchise and played a key role in two title-winning seasons with his aggressive yet composed batting style.
The middle order continues with CSK legend Suresh Raina, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise. Raina remains CSK’s second-highest run-scorer with 4687 runs in 171 innings and was a vital figure in their dominance across several IPL seasons.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu was chosen at number five. Rayudu played a significant role in Chennai’s success during his stint with the franchise, scoring 1932 runs in 80 innings and helping the team secure three IPL titles.
MS Dhoni leads a powerful all round core
No CSK lineup would be complete without MS Dhoni, and Mohit appointed the legendary wicketkeeper as captain of his all-time XI. Under Dhoni’s leadership, Chennai Super Kings lifted five IPL titles and established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in the league. Dhoni also remains the franchise’s highest run-scorer with 4865 runs in 215 innings, including 22 half-centuries.
The all-round strength of the side begins with Ravindra Jadeja at number seven. Jadeja played 186 matches for CSK, contributing 2198 runs and taking 143 wickets while providing exceptional fielding and balance to the side.
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A bowling attack packed with match winners
In the bowling department, Mohit included veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who picked up 97 wickets in 106 matches during his time with the Super Kings.
West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo also made the cut. Bravo was one of the most impactful players in CSK’s history, scoring 1004 runs and claiming 140 wickets in 116 matches while helping the franchise win three IPL titles.
Former South Africa all-rounder Albie Morkel was placed at number ten. Morkel was known for his explosive hitting and useful medium pace, scoring 827 runs and taking 76 wickets in 78 matches for Chennai. The lineup is completed by swing specialist Deepak Chahar, who represented CSK between 2018 and 2024 and claimed 76 wickets in 76 innings with his new-ball brilliance.
Mohit Sharma’s all time CSK XI: Michael Hussey, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Dwayne Bravo, Albie Morkel, Deepak Chahar.
