Veteran offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin is seeking clarity from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) regarding his role in the team in the IPL 2026 season. According to a report by Espncricinfo, All-Round told the franchise it was open to moving forward if it no longer fits its future plans.
Chennai Super Kings acquired Ashwin at last year’s mega auction for Rs 9.75. Ashwin returned to his hometown team eight years later. He played nine of 14 games and took just seven wickets with an economic rating of 9.12.
It’s worth mentioning that this is his most expensive season and surpasses his previous top 8.49. This was also his first season since his debut in 2009, where he played games of less than 12 games.
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Ravichandran Ashwin seeks clarity from the Chennai Super Kings about his role in IPL 2026
The timeline for releasing players prior to IPL 2026 depends on the auction date that has not yet been finalized. Mega auctions occur every three years, but mini auctions take place between November and February.
Player transactions may take place at least one week before the auction. Meanwhile, Ashwin has asked the Chennai Super Kings to clarify his role in the 2026 season and is willing to leave the team if he no longer fits their plans.
“R Ashwin asked the team to clarify how he was going to use him in IPL 2026. ESPNcricinfo learned. Sources said he told the franchise he didn’t mind saying goodbye to them if he didn’t fit the plan,” the report read.
Ravichandran Ashwin leaves CSK amid Sanju Samson’s trade demand
Ravichandran Ashwin’s departure from the Chennai Superkings came after reports that Rajasthan Royals (RR) Captain Sanju Samson requested a trade or release prior to the IPL 2026 auction.
Ashwin began his IPL career with CSK and was extremely successful in 2010 and 2011 by winning consecutive titles under Ms Dhoni’s leadership. He was also part of a team that finished as runner-ups in 2012, 2013 and 2015.
Ashwin played for the Rising Pune Supergiant (RPSG) in 2016, but missed the 2017 season due to injuries. He then represented the Punjab Kings (PBK) for two seasons before joining Delhi Capitals (DC) in 2020 and 2021. He played for the Rajasthan Royals in 2025 to 2024 before returning to CSK in 2025.
Ravichandran Ashwin IPL’s fifth-highest wicket taker
Ravichandran Ashwin is the fifth-highest wicket taker in IPL history. He averaged 30.22 and scored 187 wickets from 221 games and a top 4/34 with an economic rate of 7.2. Not only is Ashwin a skilled bowler, but he also contributed to his valuable run, earning 833 in the league.
CSK invested heavily in Ashwin to round out his playing career, while also involved in developing talent through the team’s academy. As the franchise goes through the transition phase, Ashwin’s experience and strong connection to CSK’s culture makes him a key figure on the team.
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