Ahead of IPL 2026, reports have emerged that Ravichandran Ashwin might part ways with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
While the exact reason for Ashwin’s potential departure is unknown, sources suggest that the experienced off-spinner has made up his mind and informed the franchise.
Dhoni, Gaikwad, and team officials have recently met in Chennai to discuss next season’s plans and according to reports, there is no clear information on CSK’s plans for Ashwin’s future.
Discussions also indicate that Ashwin might step down as Director of Operations at the CSK Academy, a position he took up last year.
If Ashwin joins another IPL team in the auction, continuing in his CSK Academy role could create a conflict of interest, which he reportedly wants to avoid.
Ashwin returned to his home IPL team CSK after 9 years during the IPL 2025 mega auction, where the franchise bought him for ₹9.75 crore.