Credit: BCCI/IPL
Life came full-circle for Ravichandran Ashwin in IPL 2025, when he was bought for INR 9.75 crore during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction by Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the team with which he started his IPL journey back in 2008. But this season wasn’t the best for both CSK and Ashwin as he could only take seven wickets in the nine matches he played, while the side finished at the bottom of the table for the first-time ever. Since 2009, it was the first time that Ashwin played less than 12 matches in an IPL season. Adding to his plight, the 18th edition of IPL was also his costliest, as for the first time his economy went past 8.49 (9.12 runs in an over in IPL 2025).
Given the scenario, it is reported that Ravichandran Ashwin has sought clarity from CSK regarding his role in the team for the IPL 2026 season, as per ESPNcricinfo. They also claimed that the 38-year-old off-spinner has expressed his willingness to part ways with CSK if the team’s plans do not align with his aspirations to remain a key contributor both with bat and ball. In his sit-down chat with Sanju Samson, Ashwin jokingly said that if there is to be a player trade it can take place up to one week before the auction. A mini auction of IPL takes place every year, usually between November to February.
Sanju Samson reportedly has expressed his interest to leave Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026
During the same chat, Ravichandhran Ashwin further said, “With regard to news about me or Sanju obviously a player has the right to express interest (if he wishes to be retained or not). Every player seeks clarity.” Ashwin also addressed Sanju Samson’s reported interest to be released by Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026. “Even with Sanju's news, it's rumours or it's coming from the franchise's side. I don't know who is making this news,” he remarked. With only a limited number of players likely to be retained ahead of the auction, Ashwin seems to be keen to ensure his role extends beyond that of just a squad member.
It is important to remember that Ashwin is the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the IPL history. He started with CSK, and went on to represent the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals before returning to CSK in 2025. The reported development has sparked intense speculation about Ashwin’s future with the five-time IPL champions as the franchise reportedly prepares for a potentially transformative season under new leadership dynamics.
