Ravichandran Ashwin , the former Indian cricketer, is likely to part ways with five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. It is understood that
while the exact reason of potential separation between Ravichandran Ashwin and Chennai Super Kings isn’t confirmed, the 38-year-old has conveyed his intention to the franchise after making up his mind.
As per the report from Cricbuzz, who broke the aforementioned news, the top officials of CSK and players, including the likes of MS Dhoni and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, have held meetings in Chennai over the past couple of days. In these conversations, the plans around the IPL 2026 season have been discussed in all likelihood, especially with the trade window currently open.
Ravichandran Ashwin was signed by CSK for INR 9.75 crore ahead of IPL 2025 season
It is also likely that Ravichandran Ashwin gives up the position of Director of Operations at the CSK Academy, which he has held for the past year, apart from leaving them as a player. This is due to the potential conflict of interest arising if he manages to find a new team for the IPL 2026, and it is something the veteran off spin bowler wants to avoid for sure.
Notably, Ravichandran Ashwin made his return to CSK ahead of the IPL 2025 season after he was bought in the mega auction for INR 9.75 crore. After staying nine years away from the franchise, he played nine matches for CSK, taking just seven wickets at an economy of 9.12, while his promotion up the order as a batter didn’t yield desired results either, which meant that team finished in last place for the first-time ever in the IPL.
Moreover, during his time away from CSK, he was a part of Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL.