Ravichandran Ashwin gave clarification on leaving CSK, citing the example of RR, wrapped up his own team

Indian veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's performance in the IPL 2025 did not meet expectations. He was bought for 9.75 crores at the mega auction and returned to his original team, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). However, this season was disappointing for him, as he took only seven wickets in nine matches at an average of 40.43. His batting was also not very notable, scoring just 33 runs.

After this poor showing, there is much speculation about his future. Many media reports suggest that CSK may release Ashwin before the next season. For the first time, Ashwin has broken his silence on the matter. He mentioned that during his three years with Rajasthan Royals (RR), the franchise was transparent about its plans. Ashwin said, "After the first year I got an email from the CEO which talked about my performance, the expectations of the franchise, and the contract renewal. After every season, it is the franchise’s responsibility to tell the player whether he will be retained or released."

He also added that every player has the right to voice their wish to the franchise regarding retention. However, he dismissed reports that he and Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson are planning to leave the franchise. Ashwin clarified, "The news coming about me or Sanju is not from the players. Maybe these rumours are coming from the franchise, but I don't know who is spreading them."

Ashwin further stated, "I have asked CSK for clarification about my role. I don't know where this rumour about Sanju is coming from." Notably, Ashwin is the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament, with 187 wickets in 221 matches. Last year, he rejoined Chennai, but he bowled at a poor economy rate of 9.12 runs per over. For the first time, he bowled at an economy rate exceeding 8.50 in a season.