In a significant development that could pave the way for a potential reunion with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the next IPL mega auction, star Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has rejoined the India Cements setup. This move positions Ashwin to take charge of CSK’s new High-Performance Center, which is being established on the outskirts of Chennai.
This transfer strategically places Ravichandran Ashwin in a favourable position for a potential return to his former IPL franchise, CSK, during the IPL 2025 auction. According to the rules of the mega auction, Ashwin cannot be directly traded from his current team, the Rajasthan Royals (RR), to CSK. However, the auction presents the best opportunity for CSK to reacquire the veteran off-spinner, who was last on their roster in 2015.
“The auction dynamics will determine his return because we cannot control that process. We will have to see if the opportunity arises. Initially, Ashwin will be taking charge of our High-Performance Center, handling all cricketing programs and related activities. We have signed him back, and he is now part of the CSK venture. Additionally, he will play for the India Cements teams in the TNCA First-Division,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan explained, as quoted by The Indian Express.
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This move marks a full-circle moment for Ravichandran Ashwin, who began his career with India Cements at the age of 22 in 2008. His performances for CSK in the 2009 and 2010 seasons significantly boosted his profile, leading to his India debut in 2010. Ashwin was a crucial part of CSK’s core team until 2015 before he moved to other IPL franchises.
“Growing the game and contributing to the cricketing fraternity is my primary focus,” commented Ravichandran Ashwin on his new role.
R Ashwin rejoins India Cements to play a huge role at Superkings Ventures, He will now play for the India Cements Teams ! 🥳🙌#WhistlePodu | #Yellove | #CSK | #Ashwin
📸 via BCCI / IPL pic.twitter.com/dOCl9OMWSO— Saravanan Hari 💛🦁🏏 (@CricSuperFan) June 5, 2024
In addition to managing the high-performance center, Ravichandran Ashwin will also represent the India Cements squad in Tamil Nadu’s domestic First Division league. The state-of-the-art training facility will serve as a year-round training base for all CSK cricketers from around the globe.
During his tenure with CSK, Ravichandran Ashwin took 90 wickets in 97 matches over eight seasons. Notably, he was the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the 2011 IPL season with 20 wickets, playing a pivotal role in CSK’s second title win. This strategic move not only strengthens CSK’s training infrastructure but also keeps the door open for Ashwin’s potential return to the team where he made a significant impact early in his career.
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Ashwin’s involvement in the High-Performance Center and his participation in domestic cricket for India Cements signals his ongoing commitment to the sport. It also hints at a possible reunion with CSK, where his experience and skills could prove invaluable. This development is a win-win for both Ashwin and CSK, promising exciting prospects for the future of the franchise and the player alike.
