Rajasthan Royals might pick Ravichandran Ashwin not only because he has played for them before, but also due to their past interest in him during the IPL 2025 mega auction. With the team currently lacking a quality right-arm off-spinner, Ashwin fits in well.
Moreover, with reports suggesting that Sanju Samson could leave the franchise, RR may need an experienced leader, a role Ashwin is well-suited for. He recently showcased his captaincy skills in TNPL 2024, even leading his team to a title win.
SRH already have Zeeshan Ansari and Harsh Dubey, but they still lack an experienced spinner.
Ravichandran Ashwin could fill that gap and strengthen their spin attack. His inclusion might give SRH strong momentum in IPL 2026.
While PBKS have a seasoned spinner in Yuzvendra Chahal and finished as runners-up in IPL 2025, and PBKS might release Glenn Maxwell.
In that case, Ashwin could be a solid replacement, offering both experience and off-spin variety.