IPL 2026: Ashwin in for retention talks with CSK ahead of mini auction
Ravichandran Ashwin picked seven wickets in nine innings in IPL 2025.
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Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's future with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has grabbed significant attention, with retention talks underway ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction. According to sources, Ashwin has asked for clarity from the franchise on how they plan to utilise him in the upcoming season. The 37-year-old has reportedly told CSK that he would be open to parting ways if he does not fit into their long-term plans.
Ashwin was bought by CSK for a whopping INR 9.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, making a return to his home franchise after nearly a decade. However, his comeback season did not go as expected. The off-spinner played only nine of CSK’s 14 league matches, the fewest he has featured in a single IPL season since his debut year in 2009. Ashwin also recorded an economy rate of 9.12, his highest in the tournament’s history, surpassing his previous best of 8.49.
Ashwin hints at possibility of a trade
The IPL 2026 auction schedule is yet to be finalized, but the retention deadline will depend on its date. While the mega auction occurs every three years, a mini auction is held annually between November and February. The player trade window is open until one week before the auction, meaning CSK and Ashwin still have time to decide on the next step.
Ashwin himself hinted at the possibility of a trade during a recent chat on his YouTube channel with Sanju Samson. If he parts ways with the team, it would also mean stepping down from his role as the Director of Operations at the CSK Academy to avoid any potential conflict of interest.
Ravichandran Ashwin teases interview with Sanju Samson
Meanwhile, captaincy is a major talking point, with MS Dhoni having taken over from Ruturaj Gaikwad mid-season in 2025 after the latter’s injury. While Dhoni’s future will likely be confirmed only after his pre-season training, Gaikwad is expected to lead if available. Senior management, including Dhoni and Gaikwad, have been in Chennai recently for internal strategy meetings, which are believed to have covered both leadership and player retention plans. Meanwhile, the off-spinner is one of the league’s most accomplished bowlers, with 187 wickets in 221 IPL matches at a career economy of 7.29, alongside 833 runs at a strike rate of 118.