Ashwin looking for clarity with CSK ahead of IPL 2026 saying he doesn’t mind parting ways if he doesn’t fit plans.
R Ashwin asks CSK for clarity ahead of IPL 2026.
R Ashwin, an all-rounder for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has asked his management to clarify their plans for his usage in the 2026 Indian Premier League. He has reportedly told the franchise that if he doesn’t match their plans, he doesn’t mind leaving them.
Ashwin featured in nine of the 14 games that were viewed as a homecoming after being purchased by CSK in the INR 9.75 crore super auction last year. After playing overseas for eight seasons, he was back with the team that represents his city. He played fewer than 12 games in a season for the first time since 2009 in the IPL. It was also his most expensive season, as he scored 9.12 runs per over for the first time, surpassing 8.49.
The release date of players is often determined by the time of the auction, which has not yet been decided for IPL 2026. There is a mini auction every year, but the mega sale only happens every three years. Typically, it takes place at any time between November and February. As Ashwin stated in jest during his interview with Sanju Samson, a player swap may occur up to one week prior to the auction.
“I played three years for RR,” Ashwin said on his Youtube show. “After my 1st year, I got an email from the CEO saying this is your performance, this is our expectation and we’re renewing your contract. It’s one plus one plus one – the contract renewal. After every season, it’s the responsibility of the franchise to communicate to the player if they’re retaining or releasing him.
“With regard to news about me or Sanju – obviously a player has the right to express interest [if he wishes to be retained or no]. Every player seeks clarity. As things stand, it’s not in my hands. I’ve just asked for clarity. The situation we’re in, all the news floating around, none of it is coming from the players. Even with Sanju’s news, it’s rumours or it’s coming from the franchise’s side. I don’t know who is making this news.”