R Ashwin switches sides before IPL 2025 mega auction; leaves Rajasthan Royals midway

Amid the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 buzz, veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin has rejoined India Cements, setting the stage for his return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Ashwin was part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL from 2008 to 2015. Well, as part of this deal, Ashwin will oversee the Chennai Super Kings High Performance Centre, a new facility on the outskirts of Chennai, which is expected to be operational before the next edition of the IPL in 2025.

Ashwin's expertise and experience are expected to significantly benefit CSK's infrastructure and player development at their High-Performance Centre in Chennai. Ashwin’s return to India Cements opens up the possibility of the Indian off-spinner reuniting with CSK during the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, which is scheduled later this year.

R Ashwin rejoins India Cements, set for CSK return

Since it is a big player auction, a direct trade between CSK and the Rajasthan Royals (RR) would not be possible, as CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that they want to bring the local hero back into the team.

However, the RR won't be able to retain Ashwin, and if CSK fails to secure the Indian off-spinner at the IPL 2025 mega auction, unfortunately, the five-time champions will have the only other option to negotiate a trade after the auctions.

Well, Mr. Viswanathan has emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the IPL auction dynamics, saying that CSK will have to wait for the right opportunity to bring Ashwin back into the team for the upcoming IPL 2025. The CSK CEO further revealed that Ashwin's primary role will be managing the cricketing programs at the High-Performance Centre.

Mr. Viswanathan also confirmed that the senior Indian off-spinner will also represent India Cements in the TNCA First Division since he is now a part of the CSK venture, marking his complete return to the Chennai setup, and fans should not be surprised if they seal the deal before the auctions.

Ashwin is now part of the CSK venture: Kasi Viswanathan

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was quoted as saying by The Indian Express: “That totally depends on the auction dynamics because we can’t have control over it. We have to wait and see if the opportunity presents itself. First up, he will be taking charge of our High-Performance center, and will handle the cricketing side of it including the programs and everything. We have signed him back. He is now part of the CSK venture and will also play for the India Cements teams in the TNCA First Division.”

They are confident that Ashwin will play a significant role in their future endeavors. With the CSK already having academies across the globe, the High-Performance Centre (HPC) will serve as the hub for players from Chennai, Johannesburg, and Texas to undergo training around the year.

Speaking about his new role with the CSK, Ashwin said that “growing the game and contributing to the cricketing fraternity is his primary focus.” He will complete the formalities in the coming weeks when he comes back from a short break from the game after the recent IPL 2024.