R Ashwin seeks an explanation from CSK before IPL 2026
R Ashwin seeks an explanation from CSK before IPL 2026
Ravi Ashwin, CSK all-rounder, who was picked up by CSK for ₹9.75 crore at the 2025 mega auction, featured in just nine of the team's 14 matches this season, a significant drop from his usual involvement.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder R Ashwin has asked the team to clearly outline how they plan to utilise him in IPL 2026. Sources say Ashwin has told CSK that if he doesn’t fit into their plans, he’s okay with leaving the team.
Ashwin was bought by CSK for ₹9.75 crore in last year’s mega auction. It was a special moment for him, returning to play for his hometown team after eight years with other franchises. But he only played nine out of 14 matches his lowest since his debut season in 2009. It was also his most expensive season with the ball, averaging 9.12 runs per over, the first time his economy rate had crossed 8.49.
The deadline to release players depends on when the auction is held, which hasn’t been decided yet for IPL 2026. There’s a mega auction every three years and a mini auction every year, usually between November and February. If a player is traded like Ashwin joked about in an interview with Sanju Samson it can happen up to one week before the auction.
On his YouTube show, Ashwin shared how Rajasthan Royals used to communicate with him. “After my first year, the CEO sent me an email with my performance and expectations. They renewed my contract each year. It’s the franchise’s job to tell players if they’re being kept or released.”
Ashwin also said that players have the right to ask for clarity. “All the news going around about me or Sanju it’s not coming from us. It’s either rumours or from the franchise. I’ve just asked for clarity. That’s all.”
Ashwin is the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. He began his career with CSK and has played for Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals before returning to CSK in 2025.
CSK also has to decide on captaincy. MS Dhoni took over mid-season last year after Ruturaj Gaikwad got injured. The team usually waits for Dhoni to confirm his availability when he starts training later in the year. Last season, CSK named Gaikwad captain even though Dhoni was still playing, and that’s likely to happen again next year.