In a poetic turn of events that cricket romantics will cherish, Ravichandran Ashwin is set to return to where it all began, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured his services for INR 9.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. The price tag not only exceeded expectations but also surpassed the INR 8.5 crore mark that Ashwin had playfully set for himself during a mock auction he conducted earlier.
R Ashwin: Life comes full circle!
The 38-year-old veteran’s return to CSK marks a full circle in a storied IPL career that began in 2009 with the same franchise. It was with the Chennai outfit that Ashwin first rose to prominence, helping the team clinch two IPL titles during his tenure from 2009 to 2015. His innovative carrom balls and shrewd bowling tactics made him a cornerstone of CSK’s golden era.
The journey between then and now has been superb. Following CSK’s suspension in 2016, Ashwin’s path diverged through various franchises – Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings (where he also served as captain), Delhi Capitals, and most recently, Rajasthan Royals. Through these stints, he amassed impressive statistics: 180 wickets in 212 games, alongside valuable contributions of 800 runs.
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R Ashwin: More than just an all-rounder
His most recent IPL season with Rajasthan Royals in 2024 saw him claim 9 wickets in 15 matches. While these numbers might seem modest, they don’t tell the complete story of his tactical acumen and experience that he brings to any team he represents.
The bidding war at the auction showed that multiple teams recognized his value, with Rajasthan Royals also showing interest before CSK sealed the deal. For Chennai Super Kings, this acquisition isn’t merely about statistics – it’s about bringing home one of their own, a local Tamil Nadu hero who understands the franchise’s culture and the expectations of the passionate Chennai crowd.
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