Tom Moody Predicts Ravichandran Ashwin Likely to Be Released by CSK After IPL 2025 Failure

Former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody believes that off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin could be one of the first names on Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) release list following their disappointing IPL 2025 campaign.

Despite being bought for INR 9.75 crore in the previous auction, Ashwin has struggled to deliver consistent performances.

Return to CSK After a Decade Falls Flat

Ashwin, who was a part of CSK between 2009 and 2015 and played a key role in their back-to-back title wins in 2010 and 2011, returned to the franchise for the 2025 season.

However, the veteran has managed to pick up only five wickets in eight games during the ongoing season, contributing to CSK’s poor campaign. He was even dropped from the playing XI for a few matches.

Moody explained CSK’s reasoning behind acquiring Ashwin, saying, “Chennai have a tendency to buy proven players. They went for R Ashwin because he has been clinical on the Indian pitches and this policy has always worked for the five-time champions.”

Need for Tough Calls Before IPL 2026

Tom Moody, speaking on ESPNcricinfo, emphasized the need for CSK to make difficult decisions ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction.

“If Chennai need funds for the next auction, Ashwin would be the first one to be released,” Moody stated.

“His price was around INR 10 crore in the mega auction and that’s a lot of money for a player, who is not an automatic pick. The management will have to make hard conversation with him.”

CSK are currently placed 10th on the points table with only three wins in 12 games, officially out of playoff contention for the second consecutive year—a first in franchise history. They are set to face Rajasthan Royals in their penultimate game in Delhi on May 20.

CSK’s Underperformance Adds Pressure

Moody pointed out that Ashwin’s limited impact has coincided with one of CSK’s worst seasons.

The former Sunrisers Hyderabad coach said, “I understand the philosophy behind CSK going for Ashwin because, at the end of the day, they have always gone for proven and mature players and that philosophy has worked for them over the duration of the IPL. But if you need to release funds, the obvious one would be Ashwin.”

Ashwin’s price tag of nearly INR 10 crore makes his place in the team a costly gamble, especially when he is not a guaranteed starter. “That maybe a hard conversation that the management will have to have with him,” Moody added.

Ashwin’s 2025 IPL Performance in Numbers

The 38-year-old’s return to his home franchise, though initially celebrated, has not lived up to expectations.

In the eight games he has played, Ashwin has taken only five wickets at an average of 48.40 and an economy rate of 8.96. His best bowling figures have been 2 for 48 against Punjab Kings.

As a designated all-rounder, Ashwin has also been ineffective with the bat. He has scored only 20 runs this season at an average of 6.67 and a strike rate of 90.91, further weakening CSK’s already faltering campaign.

Possible Strategy for Mini Auction

Moody suggested that if CSK still value Ashwin’s experience, they could consider buying him back in the mini auction at a reduced price. The upcoming auction will be critical for all 10 IPL franchises as they re-evaluate their strategies.

CSK’s overall performance this season has fallen short across departments. After starting the tournament with a win over Mumbai Indians, they failed to maintain momentum.

With their playoff hopes dashed, the franchise is expected to make sweeping changes before the next season.

Ashwin’s fate with CSK hangs in the balance, and the franchise’s management will have to assess whether retaining him at a high cost aligns with their plans for a much-needed revival.