Sarfaraz Khan is set for a highly anticipated return to the Indian Premier League after being secured by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at his base price during the IPL 2026 mini-auction. The right-handed batter, who had been absent from the league for three years despite strong domestic performances, expressed immense gratitude to the franchise for giving him a "new life."
Sarfaraz is particularly excited about the prospect of playing under the guidance of legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni. The 28-year-old, who recently showcased stellar form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, scoring 329 runs including a century and three fifties, is eager to join the CSK dressing room and contribute significantly to their campaign for a record-breaking sixth title.

“Dear CSK, thank you so, so much for giving me this opportunity. And I feel very lucky that I am going to play with Mahi bhai [MS Dhoni]. I hope I will learn a lot, and cannot wait to join you guys soon. Thank you so much for giving me a new life,”
Batting specialists with most career runs scored at MA Chidambaram Stadium (batters/all-rounders/wicketkeepers only)
| Rank | Player | Team | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Chennai Super Kings | 1547 runs | |
#2 | Chennai Super Kings | 764 runs | |
#3 | Rajasthan Royals | 518 runs | |
| #4 | Chennai Super Kings | 496 runs | |
| #5 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 414 runs |
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Most importantly, 2-0-15-2 at the death, bowling 17 and 20, nailing his yorkers and change of pace. Safe to say two overs of Ellis are locked at the ‘Pauk’ in the death for the summer of 26?
Bowler

When we started the season, right from the appointment of the coaching staff, we have always taken his advice and suggestions. He followed the entire [SMAT] tournament, noted all the strengths and weaknesses of the players and discussed with us. He knows the stats and numbers of each domestic player from Jharkhand.
Batter

Sanju is an international-quality player, and he fills that role very well. So it’s succession planning, but also about refreshing the group and looking at what Chennai will look like in six years, not just two.
Batter

“Dear CSK, thank you so, so much for giving me this opportunity. And I feel very lucky that I am going to play with Mahi bhai [MS Dhoni]. I hope I will learn a lot, and cannot wait to join you guys soon. Thank you so much for giving me a new life,”