CSK's brand value holds at $244 million despite three missed playoffs

Chennai Super Kings' brand value stands at US$244 million according to Houlihan Lokey's IPL Valuation Study 2026, up 3.8 percent from last year. The figure places CSK fourth among IPL franchises behind RCB, Mumbai Indians and KKR.

The investment bank noted that CSK recorded the least growth among the elite four franchises after failing to reach the playoffs for the third straight season. However, it said the brand floor held and ranked the franchise second in the league on business value.

Houlihan Lokey attributed the sustained commercial foundation to sponsors paying for access to MS Dhoni's audience. Dhoni stepped back from captaincy in 2024 and missed IPL 2026 with a calf injury but remains involved in franchise decisions.