(Credit IPL)
Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s renowned off-spinner, seems to be considering a return to his roots with a potential comeback to the Chennai Super Kings. His assumption of leadership at the Chennai Super Kings High Performance Centre has intensified speculations.
According to the franchise’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, in an interview with PTI, Ashwin will oversee the operations of the center as well as the various academies both in India and abroad.
“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,” he said.
The center is situated on the outskirts of Chennai.
Recently, Ravichandran Ashwin made history by becoming the second Indian bowler to reach 500 Test wickets, following in the footsteps of the legendary Anil Kumble. His remarkable performances for CSK during the period of 2008-2015 paved the way for his breakthrough at the international level.
As the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League approaches, franchises are gearing up for the mega auction, where Ashwin could be a sought-after player. Since his stint with Chennai, he has represented teams like the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals, and most recently, the Rajasthan Royals.
When asked if CSK might consider bidding for Ashwin, the franchise’s CEO responded cryptically, hinting at the possibility of a reunion.
Viswanathan said: “We can’t control what happens at the auctions. We will see what happens.”
Returning to the India Cements fold, Ashwin will also have the opportunity to represent its team in the TNCA first division.
As for the CSK franchise, the iconic Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been exceptional in his role as the finisher for the team. However, there is ongoing speculation regarding his future with the side.
“Only MS can decide for himself. We and his fans would wish for him play but it will ultimately it will be his call and we will respect that,” Viswanathan added.
At the start of this season, Dhoni relinquished the captaincy of the team, passing on the leadership reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
