CSK Weigh Veer Release as Auction Purse Takes Priority

Chennai Super Kings are considering releasing Prashant Veer, one of their two INR 14.2 crore acquisitions, as the franchise looks to create financial room ahead of the December 16 auction in Goa.

Veer, a 20-year-old left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh, was bought amid considerable anticipation at the last auction in Abu Dhabi. The return did not match the outlay. He scored 90 runs in six matches across five innings, with a highest score of 43 against RCB, and failed to take a single wicket.

Kartik Sharma, the other INR 14.2 crore signing, presents a different case. The 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan scored 295 runs in 11 matches at an average of 32.77, with a highest score of 71 against LSG in the second half of the season. That output is generally regarded as a reasonable return for a middle-order batter, and the CSK management may ultimately retain him. A franchise official confirmed that no decision on retentions and releases has yet been taken.

Funds Over Farewell

The more likely outcome is not a permanent parting with Prashant Veer. It is understood that CSK wants to free up funds, and there is a possibility the franchise releases him with the intention of buying him back at a lower price. The Zaheer Khan-coached side currently have Rs 2.4 crore remaining in their purse. With the annual increment of Rs 5 crore to the salary cap, that figure rises to Rs 7.4 crore. Releasing players is the mechanism available to create further headroom.

Franchises have until November 15 to announce their retention and release lists ahead of the mini-auction.

Punjab Stand Firm on Jansen

Elsewhere, Punjab Kings sources have dismissed speculation that the franchise plans to trade Marco Jansen, whom Dale Steyn recently described as the best cricketer in the world. Top PBKS sources said there is no intention to let the South African go.

Jansen had an underwhelming season last year, taking nine wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate above 10 and an average over 50. With the bat, he managed 51 runs in five innings.

His international form tells a different story. Jansen was adjudged Player of the Series in the recently concluded three-Test series against Australia. He is ranked the world’s No. 1 bowler and all-rounder on the ICC Test charts, a distinction whose relevance to the T20 format remains a matter for debate.

“Marco Jansen is currently the best cricketer in the world,” Steyn wrote in a social media post last month. Jansen’s performances against Australia lent weight to that assessment. PBKS bought him for Rs 7 crore at the 2025 mega auction.

                                               

Relevant news