The veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to part ways with Chennai Super Kings ahead of the IPL 2026 season, ending his second stint with his home franchise.

He has served as the Director of Operations at the CSK Academy and is likely to relinquish his conflict of interest if he joins another franchise.

Ashwin has reportedly communicated his decision to the CSK management, though the exact reasons behind this seperation remain unclear. The development comes amid recent meetings between top CSK officials and players, including current and former captains MS Dhoni and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

The 38-year old spinner has returned to CSK in IPL 2025 after a ten-year gap, having been acquired for INR 9.75 crore. He has accumulated stats with 187 wickets from 220 matches at an economy rate of 7.29, along with 833 runs scored at a strike rate of 118.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL career began witb CSK where he played six seasons – 2009 to 2015 and he represented various franchises including Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals between 2016 and 2024 before returning to CSK.

During the 2025 season, Ashwin was bought for a whooping price of 9.75 crore and featured in nine matches picking up just seven wickets while conceding runs at an economy rate of 9.13. With the bat, he failed to make any notable contributions, which marked a dip in form compared to his capabilities.

Ashwin’s departure follows further significant development in the IPL circuit, with reports of Sanju Samson requesting release from Rajasthan Royals.

Recently, CSK has showed interest in clinching Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals. The latest reports suggest that the Royals has asked two players in return for Sanju Samson’s trade to the Super Kings. If possible, Ashwin might return to Rajasthan.

Thus it looks very likely that Ashwin might not be retained by the five times winner (CSK) for the upcoming season irrespective of the bowler’s demand to be released or not.