Chennai Super Kings (CSK) denied reports suggesting the franchise is up for sale amid growing interest from global investors making billion-dollar bids for teams. The sale interest around Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) fueled speculation that CSK were also set to change ownership.
Global investors, including Avram Glazer, are exploring bids for RCB and RR, according to a report from ESPNcricinfo. Each IPL franchise is valued at around Rs 12,000–13,000 crore, a benchmark based on the 2021 sale of the Lucknow and Ahmedabad teams for a combined Rs 12,715 crore at the auction.
CSK Not for Sale as Franchise Dismisses Ownership Change Rumours
There have been rumours that the Chennai Super Kings were set to be sold, with speculation pointing to an influential political family from Tamil Nadu as potential buyers. The buzz gathered pace as global investors continue to show interest in franchises like RCB and RR.
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However, a senior CSK official rejected the claims, stating that the current owners have no intention of selling the franchise now or in the future, according to a report by the Deccan Chronicle.
“The current owners have absolutely no intention of selling the team. And I can guarantee that they will not let go of the franchise in the future either,” the official said.
CSK Remains Srinivasan Family’s Most Valuable Asset Built Around MS Dhoni
Legendary skipper MS Dhoni has been part of the Chennai Super Kings and played a crucial role in their on-field success since the Indian Premier League began in 2008. The franchise has grown into far more than a commercial venture.
Although N. Srinivasan and his family stepped away from India Cements in 2024 after UltraTech Cement acquired a controlling stake, CSK had already been separated as an independent entity long before that transition, ensuring it remained firmly under the family’s control.
“After India Cements, CSK is the identity of Srinivasan family. It is not just a business but an emotional asset and they would never part with it,” the official added.
CSK’s Strong Finances and Global Expansion Reinforce Long-Term Stability
Chennai Super Kings continue to operate as a family-controlled franchise. At the Annual General Meeting in September 2025, N. Srinivasan was appointed chairman of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited. K.S. Viswanathan serves as Managing Director and CEO, while Rupa Gurunath is the Wholetime Director.
Control of the franchise remains with the Srinivasan family, with Srinivasan and his daughter Rupa taking all key decisions. CSK have also expanded beyond the IPL, running teams in multiple overseas leagues through different subsidiaries, which has helped the franchise grow into a global cricket brand.
For the 2024-25 financial year, CSK posted a standalone profit after tax of around ₹181 crore despite failing to qualify for the playoffs. Past IPL franchise sales and reports of Royal Challengers attracting bids of around $2 billion have further boosted CSK’s value in the unlisted market.
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