(Image source from: AFP)

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), part of the Indian Premier League (IPL), have given their fans a lot to talk about as they get ready for the 2025 season. There are strong rumors that CSK might trade for Sanju Samson, the captain of the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Another big discussion point has been Ravichandran Ashwin's departure. Ashwin himself has mentioned that he is looking for answers about his future with the team. Although Ashwin is a significant figure in Indian cricket, former CSK player Subramaniam Badrinath believes that the off-spinner should be let go. Ashwin was purchased by CSK for a huge sum of INR 9.75 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. While Badrinath didn’t say that Ashwin doesn’t bring value to the team, he thinks the player isn’t worth such a high price.

"I believe Ashwin is valuable to CSK, but not at Rs 10 crore (Rs 9.75 crore). In the IPL, it is important to consider both the player's value and their cost. He is certainly not performing at his best anymore. That’s why I have consistently said that Ashwin should be released," Badrinath said. He also mentioned MS Dhoni’s future. With the connection to Sanju Samson, Badrinath thinks Dhoni might choose to retire from playing before the next T20 season begins. "We don’t know if MS Dhoni will keep playing or not; that choice hasn’t been made yet. He could play in a few games or just at Chepauk. There may be some brand value linked to him, and he could draw in some brands. He might announce his decision before the IPL season starts. The presence of Sanju Samson could lead to some confusion, which is what I believe," explained the two-time IPL champion.

Currently, Ashwin stands as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the IPL, with 201 wickets in 239 matches, boasting an average of 30.94. Throughout his career, he has played for several IPL teams such as Rising Pune Supergiant, Kings XI Punjab (now known as Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals.