Speculation is mounting over Ravichandran Ashwin’s future with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as multiple reports suggest the veteran spinner has held discussions with the franchise regarding his role. According to sources, the 38-year-old has made up his mind to part ways with the five-time IPL champions ahead of the upcoming mini auction in December.
If Ravichandran Ashwin does leave, his departure will not be limited to the playing squad. The former India off-spinner is also expected to step down as Director of Operations at the CSK Academy.
Having retired from international cricket last year, Ashwin made an emotional return to CSK in the previous season when the franchise secured him for ₹9.75 crore, reuniting him with his old home where he played from 2009 to 2015. However, the fairytale comeback didn’t quite match the script.
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Ravichandran Ashwin managed just seven wickets in 9 matches, while CSK endured a poor campaign, finishing at the bottom of the points table. The rumours of his exit come as a surprise to many, especially considering his heartfelt words after being re-signed at last year’s IPL mega auction.
🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨
R Ashwin and #CSK likely to part ways ahead of #IPL2026
The exact reason is immediately not clear, but Ashwin is believed to have made up his mind and conveyed this to the franchise! pic.twitter.com/17ZJhGlkGu
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) August 8, 2025
Reflecting on the reunion earlier this year, Ravichandran Ashwin had said, “It feels like it’s 2011 again. It was nice to go around and get a flavour of what it’s like elsewhere. You learn a lot, but CSK has remained a team that’s evolved, yet stayed true to its roots.” He further praised the franchise for keeping cricket at the heart of its operations despite the sport’s increasing corporatisation.
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Ravichandran Ashwin also expressed deep gratitude towards CSK icon MS Dhoni, crediting him for making the reunion possible. “I invited MS for my 100th Test to hand over the memento. I wanted to make that my last Test. Unfortunately, he couldn’t come, but I didn’t think you’d hand over the gift of getting me back to CSK. It’s a much better one, so thank you MS.”
As the IPL mini auction approaches, Ashwin’s next move will be closely watched. Whether he seeks a fresh challenge or steps away from franchise cricket entirely, his legacy with CSK — built on both success and sentiment — will remain a cherished chapter in the team’s history.
