Amid growing interest from global investors who have bid billions of dollars for the teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has denied reports that the franchise is up for sale. The interest in the sale of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) has fueled speculation that CSK is also set for a change of ownership.
According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, global investors including Avram Glazer are exploring bids for RCB and RR. Each IPL franchise is valued at around Rs 12,000-13,000 crore, a benchmark based on the combined sale of Lucknow and Ahmedabad teams at Rs 12,715 crore in the auction.
CSK not for sale as franchise quashes ownership change rumors
There are rumors that Chennai Super Kings are set to be sold, with points pointing to an influential political family from Tamil Nadu as potential buyers. The buzz gained momentum as global investors showed interest in franchises like RCB and RR.
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However, according to a report in Deccan Chronicle, a senior CSK official dismissed the claims, stating that the current owners have no intention of selling the franchise now or in the future.
“The current owners have no intention of selling the team. And I can guarantee that they will not let go of the franchise in future also,” the official said.
CSK remains the most valuable asset of the Srinivasan family built around MS Dhoni
Legendary captain MS Dhoni has been a part of Chennai Super Kings and has played a vital role in their success on the field since the Indian Premier League began in 2008. Franchising has evolved into much more than a business venture.
However, after UltraTech Cement acquired the controlling stake, N. Srinivasan and his family were separated from India Cements in 2024, with CSK separated as an independent entity long before that transition, ensuring that it would remain firmly under family control.
“After India Cements, CSK is the identity of the Srinivasan family. It is not just a business but an emotional asset and they will never part with it,” the official said.
CSK’s strong financial position and global expansion reinforce long-term sustainability
Chennai Super Kings continues to operate as a family-controlled franchise. At the Annual General Meeting in September 2025, N. Srinivasan was appointed the Chairman of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited. KS Viswanathan serves as the managing director and CEO, while Roopa Gurunath is the whole-time director.
Control of the franchise remains with the Srinivasan family, with Srinivasan and his daughter Roopa taking all important decisions. CSK has also expanded beyond the IPL, running teams in several overseas leagues through various subsidiaries, helping the franchise grow into a global cricket brand.
For the 2024–25 financial year, CSK made a profit after tax of around ₹181 crore despite failing to qualify for the playoffs. The previous IPL franchise sale and reports of Royal Challengers attracting a bid of around $2 billion have further increased CSK’s value in the unlisted market.
