R Ashwin has broken his silence on the IPL trade rumours about him and revealed that he has asked Chennai Super Kings for clarity ahead of the 2026 season. Ashwin was bought by CSK for 9.75 crore rupees during the IPL 2025 mega auction as it was an emotional homecoming for the former India spinner. However, it was a season to forget for Ashwin as his performances didn’t meet expectations.In the nine matches that he played, the spinner picked up just seven wickets at an average of 40.43 and an economy rate of 9.13. Ashwin also scored just 33 runs during this time as it was the first time since his debut season that he played less than 12 matches during a season. Recently, a report stated that Ashwin had discussions with CSK about his future and may look for an exit.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the veteran spinner recalled how during his time with RR, he was informed by the franchise about their plans with him.
“I played three years for RR,” Ashwin said on his Youtube show. “After my 1st year, I got an email from the CEO saying this is your performance, this is our expectation and we’re renewing your contract. It’s one plus one plus one – the contract renewal. After every season, it’s the responsibility of the franchise to communicate to the player if they’re retaining or releasing him,” said Ashwin.
Ashwin said that every player has the right to express their interest about being retained or not to franchises. The spinner said that his future isn’t in his hands at the moment and said none of the rumours, including the one related to Sanju Samson, are coming from the player’s side.
“With regard to news about me or Sanju – obviously a player has the right to express interest [if he wishes to be retained or no]. Every player seeks clarity. As things stand, it’s not in my hands. I’ve just asked for clarity. The situation we’re in, all the news floating around, none of it is coming from the players. Even with Sanju’s news, it’s rumours or it’s coming from the franchise’s side. I don’t know who is making this news,” said Ashwin.
The IPL trade window usually opens a month after the season ends and runs until a week before the next auction.
