R Ashwin’s “Homecoming” Headlines CSK’s Strategic Auction Picks

In a dramatic turn at the IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made headlines by bringing Ravichandran Ashwin back to the franchise for INR 9.75 crore (approximately USD 1.16 million). CSK head coach Stephen Fleming described Ashwin's return as a "homecoming," acknowledging the emotional connection between the ace spinner and the team where he made his mark between 2009 and 2015. CSK outbid Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Lucknow Super Giants in an intense four-way bidding war to secure the veteran bowler.

Adding to their spin arsenal, CSK also secured Afghanistan’s promising left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad for INR 10 crore (approximately USD 1.19 million). The Mumbai Indians initially showed interest in Noor but pulled out once CSK escalated the bid past INR 5 crore. Even Gujarat Titans, despite using their right-to-match card, eventually backed out as CSK remained relentless. With Ravindra Jadeja already retained, CSK appears to have bolstered their strategy for spin-friendly home conditions.

Fleming, reflecting on the acquisitions, remarked that Ashwin’s skills and experience still hold immense value despite him nearing the twilight of his career. He noted that Ashwin’s versatility with the bat and his outstanding bowling statistics make him a valuable asset for various roles within the team.

On Noor Ahmad, Fleming highlighted the importance of middle-over wicket-takers in today’s format. He explained that the team focused on bowlers who could disrupt opposition line-ups, especially in turning conditions, to complement the death-bowling prowess of Matheesha Pathirana. "Bowling needs to be precise these days. If you're only trying to contain, modern hitters will take the game away from you," he added, emphasising the strategic intent behind their auction choices.

CSK also managed to re-sign New Zealand's Devon Conway for INR 6.25 crore and Rachin Ravindra for INR 4 crore. When questioned about the relatively low competition for Ravindra, who recently topped the run charts in New Zealand's 3-0 Test series win in India, Fleming admitted surprise. He pointed out that Ravindra's recent form and versatility make him a player with immense potential, likening his skillset to that of Ravindra Jadeja.

"We were surprised there wasn’t more interest in him," Fleming admitted, adding that securing Ravindra at a modest price was a win for CSK. "We thought Rachin, given his success in the Test series that often counts, the performances leading up to an IPL… but we obviously experienced the IPL with him last year, and to pick him up at a what I think is a low price, and continue his development. He could be a player with that skill set just same as Jadeja at the moment, but looking forward, there could be an opportunity. So if his development continues, he's a very silky player, and we're really happy to have him at that price. We're happy to have him full stop."