Ravichandran Ashwin featured in nine matches for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during IPL 2025. According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the veteran off-spinner has asked the franchise for clarity regarding his role ahead of IPL 2026. Ashwin reportedly wants to understand exactly how CSK plans to use him next season.
He has also made it clear to the management that if he doesn’t fit into their plans, he is open to parting ways. Over the past few days, Ravichandran Ashwin future has been a hot topic, with speculation suggesting he may be looking to switch franchises.
Adding fuel to the rumours, several reports have claimed that CSK could trade Ravichandran Ashwin to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in exchange for Sanju Samson. The trade talk has been circulating for some time, and Ashwin even playfully referenced it during a recent interview with Samson.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Tough Return to CSK in IPL 2025
Ravichandran Ashwin’s homecoming to Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction came with high expectations. Bought for a hefty ₹9.75 crore after his stint with Rajasthan Royals, the veteran all-rounder endured a season to forget.
Ravichandran Ashwin managed just nine appearances out of CSK’s 14 matches, conceding runs at an economy rate of 9.12 — his worst in IPL history and the first time it climbed above 8.49. With only seven wickets to his name, he became one of the key contributors to the team’s underwhelming campaign.
With the trade window open until a week before the next auction, speculation is rife that Ashwin could be on the move again. Should that happen, CSK would need to scout for a new frontline off-spinner. Despite his struggles, Ashwin remains the league’s fifth-highest wicket-taker.
Having begun his IPL journey with CSK, Ashwin’s career has also taken him through Rising Pune Supergiant, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals before returning to Chennai in 2025.
For now, his future hangs in the balance, as CSK’s think tank — including MS Dhoni and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad — reportedly holds a series of strategy meetings in Chennai to chart the franchise’s next move.