Ravichandran Ashwin Eyes CSK Return In IPL 2025 While Leading Academies

Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been with Rajasthan Royals (RR) since 2022, is set to return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the first time since 2015. The experienced spinner has been appointed to lead CSK's High Performance Centre and their academies globally.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed the news and did not dismiss the possibility of Ashwin being acquired by the franchise in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Ashwin is currently the joint fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, with 180 wickets in 212 matches, tied with Sunil Narine.

"Ashwin is one of the greats of India and Tamil Nadu, and his presence will be a big boost to the high performance centre and our academies," Kasi Viswanathan told PTI.

The centre is situated on the outskirts of Chennai. The 37-year-old recently became the second Indian bowler to take 500 Test wickets after Anil Kumble. His performances for CSK were instrumental in his selection for the Indian team.

Ashwin was part of CSK from 2008 to 2015. With the IPL 2025 mega auction approaching, he could be back in the auction pool if not retained by Rajasthan Royals. CSK would be keen to bring him back into their squad.

Future Prospects

Ashwin played for Rajasthan Royals in the final of IPL 2024. When asked about acquiring him at the auction, Viswanathan said: "We can't control what happens at the auctions. We will see what happens." Back with India Cements, Ashwin will also be eligible to play for its team in the TNCA first division.

Dhoni's Future

Former CSK captain MS Dhoni looked impressive last season. At 42, his future at CSK remains uncertain. "Only MS can decide for himself. We and his fans would wish for him to play but ultimately it will be his call and we will respect that," Viswanathan added. Dhoni stepped down from captaincy at the beginning of this season, passing the leadership to Ruturaj Gaikwad.

(With Input from PTI)