Give clarity or release! Ravichandran Ashwin gives a massive headache to CSK ahead of IPL 2026 - Reports

Ravichandran Ashwin played nine games for CSK in IPL 2025.

In what has been the latest development, as per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that Ravichandran Ashwin has told Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to give him clarity on his role. The off-spinner is keen to know how the franchise wants to use him in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. 

Not only this, Ravichandran Ashwin has also told the CSK officials that he doesn’t mind parting ways with them if he doesn’t fit their plans. Since the last few days, the off-spinner has been in the news with many claiming that he wants to change the franchise. 

There have been a lot of rumours circulating as well, which have claimed that CSK might trade Ashwin to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and get Sanju Samson in place of him. The trade reports have been there for a while, and also Ashwin jokingly hinted about the same in his interview with Samson. 

Ravichandran Ashwin had a poor time in the IPL 2025

After being part of the RR for a while, Ashwin was brought by CSK at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction. The all-rounder bagged a deal of INR 9.75 crores, but the season didn’t go the way he would’ve wanted as he struggled badly with the ball, failing to take wickets and leaking runs. 

Ashwin played nine of 14 matches and gave away runs at an economy of 9.12 runs an over, the first time that his economy went past 8.49. The off-spinner picked just seven wickets and was one of the main reasons behind the team’s poor performance. 

The trade window usually takes place up to one week before the auction. If Ashwin goes to some other team, it means that CSK will have to look for an off-spinner. The senior player is the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the league. 

Ashwin started his career with CSK, and went on to represent the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, before returning to CSK in 2025. 

It remains to be seen what CSK decide on Ravichandran Ashwin. A few days ago, it was learned that CSK officials, along with MS Dhoni and Ruturaj Gaikwad, are meeting continuously in Chennai, discussing plans for the future.

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