The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) decision-makers will shortly discuss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction retention issue. Head coach Stephen Fleming, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, and ex-skipper MS Dhoni will come together to chalk out CSK's retention list. Though the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not made an official announcement on the retention deadline date, it is reported that the franchises will be required to present their squads by November 15. The IPL 2026 auction could be conducted from December 13 to 15. Reports had surfaced indicating that CSK will release five players: two overseas players (Sam Curran and Devon Conway) and three Indian players (Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Rahul Tripathi). Adding Ravichandran Ashwin to that list, who has quit playing IPL, CSK might free up to INR 24.70 crore prior to the IPL 2026 auction. But the franchise has refuted these reports. Now, a RevSportz report states that CSK haven't even met to discuss the retention issue yet. Dhoni, Gaikwad, and Fleming will meet. Also Read | 'Don’t Beat Our Bowlers That Bad': Lara’s Lighthearted Plea to Jaiswal But they won't enjoy the decision-making authority. N Srinivasan, who had assumed the role of chairman of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited (CSKCL) in September, will be the one with the last word. “See, we haven’t discussed it in-house yet,” a CSK official told RevSportz. “MS has just returned from the US. Fleming is in New Zealand, and the IPL hasn’t even given the date as regards the submission of the list of the retained players. Fleming, MS, and Ruturaj will have a meeting to draw up the list. Then it will be taken to Mr Srinivasan for his approval.” As Chennai Super Kings gear up for the IPL 2026 auction, much will hinge on the forthcoming meeting between Dhoni, Gaikwad, and Fleming. Although news of player releases has aroused speculation, the franchise has kept firm that no ultimate calls have been taken so far. With N Srinivasan making the final decision on retentions, CSK's strategy will surely balance experience with new talent. Fans will be on the edge of their seats to know who players are left in the yellow jersey as the team sets out to rebuild for another good season in the IPL.