Former CSK player S. Badrinath believes R. Ashwin still brings value to the team, but not at his current price tag. Bought for Rs 9.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, the veteran spinner returned to his home franchise after eight years, only for his season to end on a disappointing note after just nine games.
The former India spinner claimed just seven wickets at an economy rate of 9.13 and an average of 40.43 throughout that period. According to a recent report, Ashwin discussed his future with CSK and expressed his willingness to leave the team. Badrinath stated on his YouTube channel that he wants the spinner released from the side because he isn't performing at his best right now.
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"I feel Ashwin adds value to CSK, but not at Rs 10 crore (Rs 9.75 crore). In the IPL, you need to see the price point and the player. He is definitely not at his peak. That is why I have been maintaining from the start that Ashwin has to be released," said Badrinath.
Ahead of the 2026 season, Ashwin recently disclosed that he had discussions with CSK to get clarification about his future with the team.
The rumors that Sanju Samson was quitting RR and perhaps joining CSK were addressed by Badrinath. Samson's presence, according to the former batter, might cause confusion inside the team, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding MS Dhoni's future.
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"We don't know if MS Dhoni is going to continue playing or not. That decision has not yet been made. He might play a few matches, or he could play a few matches at Chepauk. There might be a brand value attached. He could attract a few brands. He might announce till the IPL season starts. The presence of Sanju Samson could create confusion, which is what I feel," said Badrinath.
The IPL trade window is open and will remain so until one week before the upcoming auction.
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