Tue Dec 16 16:20:00 UTC 2025: ## IPL 2026 Auction Buzz: Raina Backs CSK to Target Sarfaraz Khan

Abu Dhabi – The stage is set for the IPL 2026 auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16th. A total of 369 players will be vying for a spot in the ten competing teams, as franchises strategize to acquire the best talent for the upcoming season.

Ahead of the highly anticipated event, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina has thrown his weight behind Chennai Super Kings (CSK), urging the five-time champions to pursue Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan.

“The form Sarfaraz is in, even if he plays four or six matches and wins you two games, it will be fully justified,” Raina stated, speaking to Star Sports. He emphasized Sarfaraz’s current form and the suitability of CSK’s environment for his style of play. “Chennai’s wicket is technically sound, and if he gets set in a system like CSK, where the focus is on winning games, I think CSK will benefit greatly from his form.”

Raina contrasted Sarfaraz’s situation with previous high-priced acquisitions, noting, “We saw earlier that when Venkatesh Iyer was bought for a big amount, the form wasn’t quite there. Sarfaraz, on the other hand, is batting really well right now. You don’t get that kind of player easily – the range of shots he plays, the confidence he has.”

Sarfaraz Khan has featured in 50 IPL matches, scoring 585 runs with an average of 22.5. His recent impressive form suggests he could be a valuable asset, sparking interest among multiple franchises. It remains to be seen how fierce the bidding war for Sarfaraz will be and what price he will ultimately command at the IPL 2026 auction.

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