Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes T Natarajan could be an ideal addition to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2027 auction. The left-arm pacer is reportedly set to enter the auction pool after Delhi Capitals (DC) released him following a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign.
Natarajan was retained by DC for a massive ₹10.75 crore ahead of the IPL 2026 season. However, the 35-year-old struggled to make an impact, managing just five wickets in 10 matches. He finished the season with a poor bowling average of 71.20 and an economy rate above 11.
With CSK expected to strengthen their death-bowling options, Ashwin feels Natarajan could address an important weakness in their squad.
“I’ve heard that there is a possibility Natarajan could be in the auction. CSK need death bowling. Anshul Kamboj and Khaleel Ahmed will take the new ball. So if Natarajan is in the auction, he could be a great option for CSK. But SRH will also go for him, as he has done well for them.” T Natarajan’s difficult season also contributed to DC missing the playoffs once again.
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The franchise finished sixth in the IPL 2026 points table with seven wins from 14 matches. CSK had an even tougher campaign, finishing eighth with only six victories.
Former CSK all-rounder Vijay Shankar also backed the idea of Natarajan joining the franchise. He believes the Tamil Nadu connection could make the move particularly special, with Natarajan having represented the state throughout his domestic career since making his debut in 2015.
“A Tamil boy playing for CSK will be great. There aren’t too many Indian bowlers who are also great death bowlers. Every Tamil Nadu player’s dream is to play for CSK.”
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T Natarajan has represented India across all three formats but has struggled with injuries in recent years. Despite his recent difficulties, his IPL record highlights his experience. The left-arm pacer has played 73 matches in the competition, taking 72 wickets at an average below 33 and an economy rate of 9.21. With CSK looking for reliable options at the death, Natarajan could emerge as an intriguing target if he enters the IPL 2027 auction.
