Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2025 was meant to be a feel-good story. Eight years after leaving the franchise that helped him become a household name, the off-spinner was back in yellow, welcomed by fans. The Ash Anna was back. But the season that followed was anything but a fairytale.
Ordinary IPL 2025 at CSK for Ashwin
Ashwin played only nine matches in IPL 2025, his lowest tally since his debut season in 2009. It was also his most expensive campaign in terms of economy rate, leading to murmurs about his role in the squad. Speaking on his YouTube show Ash ki Baat, Ashwin made it clear that he wants transparency from the franchise ahead of IPL 2026. “After each season ends, it’s the responsibility of the franchise to communicate to the player whether they wish to retain him or not. Every player demands clarity. I don’t have anything in my hand; I’m just seeking clarity (from CSK),” he said.
If CSK do not see him in their plans, Ashwin is open to parting ways. The 38-year-old had even joked about a possible trade while chatting with Sanju Samson recently. Given the Rs 9.75 crore CSK spent on him at the 2024 mega auction, releasing or trading him could free up massive funds ahead of the 2026 auction. It would, however, also mean Ashwin stepping down from his role as Director of Operations at the CSK Academy in Chennai.
Badrinath puts logic in place
Former CSK batter S Badrinath believes the off-spinner’s value to the side does not justify the price tag. “I feel Ashwin adds value to CSK, but not at Rs 10 crore (Rs 9.75 crore). In the IPL, you need to see the price point and the player. He is definitely not at his peak. That is why I have been maintaining from the start that Ashwin has to be released,” Badrinath said on his channel Cric it with Badri.
The situation has been spiced up by reports that Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson has asked to be traded or released. “We don’t know if MS Dhoni is going to continue playing or not. That decision has not yet been made. He might play a few matches, or he could play a few matches at Chepauk. There might be a brand value attached. He could attract a few brands. He might announce till the IPL season starts. The presence of Sanju Samson could create confusion, which is what I feel,” Badrinath added.
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