Chennai Super Kings are facing a precarious situation in IPL 2026. With 12 points from 13 matches, the five-time champions are teetering on the edge of missing the playoffs. While CSK has shown signs of revival in the second half of the league, their poor start and some questionable auction decisions have come under scrutiny. Former CSK player and two-time IPL winner Subramaniam Badrinath has publicly criticised the franchise’s strategy, highlighting what he calls a Rs 30 crore blunder.

Jadeja and Pathirana Retention Criticised

Badrinath focused on two high-profile players – Ravindra Jadeja and Matheesha Pathirana. “They retained Ravindra Jadeja for 18 crores. Retaining a player for such a huge amount signals confidence for three years. Yet, they traded him for Sanju Samson in the second year itself. That’s not following the process,” he said.

On Pathirana, Badrinath added, “He was retained for 12 crores, despite being clearly injury-prone. Even an average observer would know he cannot last a full season. Now, KKR is facing the same issue with him. Is that your process?”

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 Dube and Gaikwad Under the Scanner

Badrinath didn’t spare other key players either. “Shivam Dube hasn’t worked out; bowlers have figured him out, and it’s easy to bowl to him now. Ruturaj Gaikwad was injured for almost the entire last season, and his captaincy has been questionable. This season, his batting form has also been woeful, further impacting his leadership,” he said.

CSK’s IPL 2026 campaign now hinges on the remaining fixtures, with one more loss potentially ending their playoff hopes.