- August 9, 2025
The IPL has always been a theatre of drama — big trades, unexpected releases, and that one shocking move that sends the fanbase into meltdown. This time, the buzz is about none other than Ravichandran Ashwin. Yes, the same Ashwin who’s still baffling batters at 38, still mixing up flight, drift, and guile like a master chef making his signature dish. Rumors are swirling that he’s asked Chennai Super Kings to let him go before the IPL 2026 season kicks off. If accurate, it might close the “homecoming” chapter for him — and open up a different plot twist.
Sunrisers Hyderabad – Plugging That Spin Hole
In 2025, SRH’s spin bowling was the weak link, much like a roof full of leaks struggling to keep things together. They had Zeeshan Ansari and Rahul Chahar as their spinners, and Adam Zampa got injured and ruined the rest of their season. Things got out of control when they had to use their fast bowlers, and the middle overs became the favorite time for opposition batters.
Ashwin is more than just a bowler. He is a bowler who thinks about the game at different levels, and he could have aided SRH in gaining the control they were lacking in the middle overs, especially on slower pitches and in conditions that were slowing down, and he could also help Pat Cummins with his tactical input from the dressing room. Together, they would have the potential to make SRH a serious playoff contender again.
Rajasthan Royals – A Homecoming 2.0?
In 2022–23, Ashwin didn’t just play for Royals; he challenged conventions with every delivery, making audacity his signature. From opening the batting to pulling off surprise bowling changes, RR gave him the license to be well, Ashwin. Now, they could use that energy again.
The Royals bet big on spin magic in 2025, entrusting the tricky duo of Hasaranga and Theekshana to weave webs around the batsmen. This made things difficult for the 2025 RR middle overs, which often did not have an Indian specialist spinner, leading to overseas slots being used on spin as compared to other areas of the squad. People want to see Ashwin get back on the pitch, and that will be feasible now.
There’s also the Jaipur factor — Sawai Mansingh Stadium historically offers assistance to spinners, especially under lights. Pair Ashwin’s craft with a pace-heavy attack led by Jofra Archer, and you suddenly have a well-balanced bowling unit that can adapt to different match situations.
Lucknow Super Giants – Elevating the Spin Game
Lucknow Super Giants have been the ultimate “so close yet so far” team in recent years. After playoff appearances in their first two seasons, they’ve since slid down the table, finishing seventh in both 2024 and 2025. One glaring hole? A senior, specialist off-spinner.
The options they currently have – Ravi Bishnoi (leg-spin), Digvesh Rathi (leg-spin), and Shahbaz Ahmed (left-arm orthodox) – are all turning the ball away from right-handers. LSG’s bowling was often left seemingly toothless against left-handers. In this respect, Ashwin’s ability to challenge the southpaws could be a difference-maker.
If CSK parts ways with him, it won’t just be a player transfer; it’ll be a statement signing for whoever grabs him. The question is — which franchise will take that leap and let Ashwin script one more unforgettable IPL chapter?
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