At the 2026 IPL Auction, Chennai Super Kings made a move that raised eyebrows—they picked up Aman Khan for ₹40 lakh. A relatively low-profile name with just 12 IPL appearances, Khan’s selection surprised many who are used to CSK targeting experienced campaigners. So, what did the Chennai think tank see in him?
Aman Hakim Khan is a 26-year-old seam-bowling all-rounder from Mumbai. He made his IPL debut in 2022 for Kolkata Knight Riders, where he played just one game. Ahead of IPL 2023, he was traded to Delhi Capitals in a straight swap for Shardul Thakur. For Delhi, he featured in a few matches but managed only 115 runs from 10 innings, with a single half-century—51 off 44 balls against Gujarat Titans. He did not pick up a wicket across his IPL appearances.
But Aman’s real story begins post-2023. In 2024, he made a bold move by shifting from Mumbai to Pondicherry, receiving a No Objection Certificate from the Mumbai Cricket Association. This allowed him to play in the Pondicherry Premier League, where he represented Villianur Mohit Kings. That tournament turned out to be a breakthrough for him. Khan finished as the highest run-scorer, amassing 511 runs in 11 innings at a staggering strike rate of over 190 and an average of more than 50. He also hit 36 sixes and chipped in with 10 wickets, underlining his all-round ability.
He carried that momentum into the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he again impressed. Khan scored 237 runs in 7 innings at a strike rate of 157 and picked up 6 wickets, becoming the leading performer for his side.
From CSK’s perspective, Khan ticks multiple boxes. He is a domestic all-rounder who can bat in the middle order, finish games with the bat, and bowl a few overs if needed. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure fits well into the franchise’s long-term approach of grooming multi-skilled Indian players.
With pitches in Chennai favouring smart batters and change-of-pace bowlers, Khan’s recent form makes him a valuable depth option. He may not have set the IPL stage alight yet, but his domestic form suggests a player ready to take the next step.
At ₹40 lakh, Aman Khan could be one of CSK’s smartest picks of the season.
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