Rumors are circulating that Ravichandran Ashwin, an accomplished player in Indian cricket, might be departing from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Though no official confirmation exists, internal developments within the CSK team suggest this potential change.
The precise cause of this possible separation remains undisclosed. Sources suggest that the seasoned off-spinner has reached a decision and may have informed the management. It is uncertain whether this move aligns with CSK’s long-term plans. Top CSK officials and players, including current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and former captain MS Dhoni, have held meetings in Chennai in recent days, presumably to strategize for the forthcoming season.
The ongoing IPL trade window has intensified speculation. The central question is whether Ashwin will be traded or participate in the auction. A key indicator of this potential split is Ashwin’s anticipated resignation from his position as Director of Operations at the CSK Academy, a role he has held for the past year. Joining another franchise would create a conflict of interest, which Ashwin aims to avoid.
Ashwin’s IPL statistics are noteworthy, with 221 matches, 187 wickets at an economy rate of 7.29, and 833 runs at a strike rate of 118. He played in nine games for CSK in the 2025 season. He rejoined Chennai last season, nine years after his initial tenure, with CSK acquiring him for Rs 9.75 crore. From 2016 to 2024, he represented Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals. His IPL career commenced with CSK in 2008, debuting in the subsequent year, and he played under MS Dhoni’s leadership during his first eight seasons (2008–2015). This news follows reports of Sanju Samson’s request to be released by Rajasthan Royals, indicating a possible shift in the IPL player market.