Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts about Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) blockbuster four-player trade with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) involving the legendary MS Dhoni. The IPL has also confirmed the trade on November 5, with England player Liam Livingstone and Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards moving to CSK, with Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis joining SRH as well.

Speaking on his YouTube channel after the deal was confirmed, Ashwin said, “At a reduced cost of 6 crores, CSK has taken a punt on Livingstone. He can smash, and CSK have been searching for a pace-hitting finisher as a replacement for Dhoni. He might turn a corner as a pace-hitter in Chepauk.”

Ravichandran Ashwin also shared his surprise at CSK making this move with SRH, but he also thinks something larger is being set up. Khaleel claimed 15 wickets in 14 matches in IPL 2025 but played only five matches in 2026 before a right
quadriceps injury ended his season as well.

“This trade came out of the syllabus. I am surprised CSK made this move. This trade is a massive gain for SRH. Hyderabad is a high-scoring ground, and SRH has bolstered their side with another defensive bowler in Ellis. CSK has given away two first-11 players. But whether Livingstone and Edwards are first-11 options for CSK remains to be seen,” said Ashwin.

“But I feel CSK may be planning something internally that’s not evident on the outside. By releasing Prashant Veer and a few others, they could enter the auction with 25 to 30 crores. Maybe they are sensing a marquee player like Cameron Green entering the auction. I’ve also heard that CSK are looking hard for the left-arm spinner,” he concluded.