New Delhi, Dec. 17 -- Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) auction strategy during the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi threw a light in what could be a possible last season for MS Dhoni as a player for the franchise. Once dubbed as Dad's Army, for their approach of player recruitments, CSK's auction strategy for 2026 season focused more on youth.

After getting the services of Sanju Samson for Rs.18 crores via a trade deal with Rajasthan Royals, the five-time champions spent a whopping Rs.14.20 crore on a 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma - joint-most expensive uncapped player in history of IPL.

An astounding Rs.32.20 crores for two wicketkeeper-batters in the squad does give a hint that the franchise is pre...