Ravichandran Ashwin was set to enjoy a good season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 following his return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The five-time champions acquired him for ₹9.75 crore, but his return did not went as expected.
The 38-year-old featured in nine games and was able to claim just seven wickets at an economy of 9.13. With the bat, he had scored 33 runs at a strike rate of 110. His performance was below par, and reports now indicate Ashwin himself has requested CSK to let him go ahead of the IPL 2026 season. That would enable him to be sold in the auction as well as release funds for CSK.
If this happens, several teams would like have him in their roster, but following are the three teams that would go the distance for this experienced offie.
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3 Teams That Could Target Ashwin in IPL 2026 Auction
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Lucknow might be the perfect destination for Ashwin, as they require a seasoned spinner. Ravi Bishnoi picked nine wickets in 11 games in IPL 2025, and Digvesh Singh Rathi picked 14 wickets in 13 matches.
Other spinners such as Shahbaz Ahmed and M Siddharth played just a few games and picked one wicket each. Ashwin's presence might also strengthen their spin department and mentor the younger bowlers. Moreover, the conditions at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow will suit Ashwin as it offers turn.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH, the runners-up in 2024, failed to qualify for the playoffs in 2025 after they finished in sixth position. Their spin bowling was inconsistent. Adam Zampa got injured after two games, Rahul Chahar was used once, and the ambidextrous all-rounder Kamindu Mendis claimed two wickets in four innings. Ashwin may prove useful as a back-up or even as a first-choice spinner in case of need.
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Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Rajasthan Royals will be seeking a veteran Indian spinner for the next season. Ashwin has already played for them, which makes him a potential candidate for the team. His skill and experience could rid them of their spin bowling problems for at least the next couple of years.
If Ashwin turns up in the IPL 2026 auction, these three teams might be among the leading candidates to secure his services.
