Chennai Super Kings picked up Matthew Short at the Abu Dhabi auction recently. The Australian all-rounder joins the IPL team for ₹1.50 crore. CSK grabbed him on December 16 during the 2026 auction proceedings. His versatility with both bat and ball attracted the franchise immediately. The team desperately needed a spin-bowling all-rounder for next season.
Matthew Short’s IPL Price and Previous Performance
The base price of ₹1.50 crore represents solid value for an experienced player. Matthew Short previously played for the Punjab Kings during the IPL 2023 campaign. He scored 117 runs across 6 matches at 19.50 average back then. His strike rate stood at 127.17 which is decent for middle-order.
Those numbers might not blow anyone away honestly speaking about statistics. But CSK sees his all-round abilities as more valuable than runs. The salary stayed at the base level because franchises wanted budget flexibility. Short brings specific skills that CSK lacked in previous seasons clearly.
His off-spin bowling works particularly well against left-handed batsmen specifically too. That’s a weapon CSK struggled without during recent campaigns played earlier.
Why CSK Needed Him
CSK faced serious problems against left-handed batters in the last few seasons. Matthew Short’s off-spin targets lefties with deadly accuracy bowling middle overs. His economy rate against left-handers sits at just 6.55 remarkably. He averages 18.34 taking wickets when bowling to them regularly.
The IPL team can now use him strategically when facing left-handed heavy lineups. His bowling adds depth to their spin attack alongside existing options. Short also bats anywhere from opening to finishing depending on the situation. That flexibility helps captains shuffle batting orders when needed during matches.
He can contribute valuable overs during packed tournament schedules without breaking down. CSK historically struggled with weak bench strength affecting substitutions made badly.
All-Round Value for 2026
Matthew Short brings competition for places within the squad now finally. His presence pushes other players to perform better constantly throughout the season. The side gets quality depth in both the batting and bowling departments. CSK can make impactful changes with him available.
His versatility allows the IPL team to adapt strategies mid-tournament easily enough. Successful campaigns need strong playing elevens plus quality backup options ready.
