The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may soon see the departure of Ravichandran Ashwin, a distinguished player in Indian cricket. Although official confirmation is pending, indications within the CSK camp point toward a potential exit for the off-spinner.
The specific reasons for this possible separation are not yet clear. However, it is believed that Ashwin has made up his mind, and his decision may have been communicated to the management. Whether this move is tied to CSK’s long-term strategies is unknown. Top CSK officials and players, including Ruturaj Gaikwad and former captain MS Dhoni, have been meeting in Chennai to likely discuss the upcoming season.
The IPL trade window is currently open, making this a focal point of speculation. The main question is whether Ashwin will be traded or enter the auction. Ashwin’s expected resignation from his role as Director of Operations at the CSK Academy is an important factor. Joining another franchise could cause a conflict of interest, something Ashwin reportedly wants to avoid.
Ashwin’s IPL statistics are impressive, 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 returned to Chennai last season after a nine-year absence, costing CSK Rs 9.75 crore. He played for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals between 2016 and 2024. His IPL career began with CSK in 2008, debuting the following year, and he played his first eight seasons (2008–2015) under MS Dhoni. This news arrives alongside reports that Sanju Samson has asked Rajasthan Royals to release him, suggesting possible changes in the IPL player market.