One of the most successful IPL franchise, Chennai Super Kings, like the other nine franchises, will be looking to revamp things as the IPL 2025 mega auction rules are expected to be declared soon. With many reports coming from each camp, the five-time champions are also in the spotlight, from discussions about MS Dhoni’s future with CSK to speculations on whom the franchise might target. One big name that has recently been linked to CSK is India’s legendary spinner R. Ashwin, who currently plays for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
Speaking of R Ashwin and CSK, they are not new to each other. Ashwin started his IPL career in 2009 with this franchise, and CSK played a major role in nurturing his growth. Now, with rumors gaining attention, here’s why Ashwin is a good fit for this franchise.
Reasons why CSK should target R Ashwin in IPL 2025 auction
Provides spin option
The first and foremost reason why CSK should look for R. Ashwin is due to his spin bowling, which doesn’t need any introduction. CSK has recently faced issues with the quality of their spin bowling lineup. No doubt they have big names like Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, and Moeen Ali, but heading into IPL 2025, will CSK might reconsider retaining Moeen Ali or Santner? If they don’t, there could be developments, and if Rajasthan Royals release Ashwin, the chances of CSK targeting him could become stronger.
Gives strength to lower-order batting
Now, the second reason that fairly boosts the Chennai Super Kings if they go for Ashwin is his batting abilities. With six Test hundreds, one of which came recently against Bangladesh, Ashwin has proven his worth as a batter. In IPL batting statistics, across 211 games, he has scored 800 valuable runs, mostly batting down the order.
Although not to forget, under MS Dhoni, Ashwin also opened for CSK, but that did not bring him success. However, batting down the order, he has improved a lot, which is also one of the reasons they should target him. Since CSK currently depends more on the top four, having Ashwin in the mix could provide the team with a strong lower-order batting depth.
Homegrown talent factor
R. Ashwin is a Chennai-born talent, and his familiarity with the CSK camp, along with his experience with the Chennai conditions, will be a boon for the franchise. Ashwin has played many games, whether in domestic cricket or internationally. Since in the IPL, every team usually plays seven home games, this gives us a small sneak peek into how dangerous Ashwin can be if he plays at his home ground. The team can benefit a lot from his presence.
