In the latest development ahead of the IPL retention deadline, Chennai Super Kings have shown interest in trading for England all-rounder Liam Livingstone from Sunrisers Hyderabad. According to sources, CSK is exploring the possibility of acquiring the 33-year-old, who was bought by SRH for a hefty ₹13 crore in the previous auction. SRH remain undecided on the matter, with discussions involving multiple franchises and players still at an early stage.
Reports from Cribuzz have also linked left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed as a potential part of any deal from the CSK side, though nothing is finalised and the talks may or may not materialise before the November 17 retention cut-off. Livingstone’s underwhelming 2026 season with SRH has brought about this interest to release him. He managed just 15 runs in two matches before losing his place in the playing XI, a far cry from the impact SRH hoped for after investing so heavily. Prior to joining the Orange Army, he had been part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s squad and earlier spent successful years with Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.
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Liam Livingstone’s explosive IPL record could make him an attractive option for CSK
Across his IPL career spanning 2019 to 2026, Livingstone has played more than 50 matches and scored 1,066 runs at a strike rate of more than 150, with a highest score of 94. His standout season remains 2022 with Punjab Kings, where he amassed 437 runs in 14 innings at a blistering strike rate of over 182, including four fifties. In 2023 he scored 279 runs at a strike rate of 163, showing his ability as a middle-order power-hitter capable of clearing the ropes regularly. He has also contributed with his off-spin and occasional leg-spin having picked up 13 wickets at an economy of around 9.
In 2024 and 2025 IPL, he scored 111 and 112 runs respectively in limited opportunities, and the brief SRH stint did little to revive confidence. Yet franchises continue to value his explosive batting, useful spin options, and experience in high-pressure T20 environments. For CSK, who have been reshaping their squad and seeking all-round balance after recent changes, Livingstone represents a high-upside option who can accelerate in the middle order and provide bowling depth. Whether the trade goes through remains uncertain. SRH’s hesitation is understandable given the big price tag and the need to balance their own squad composition.
