Chennai Super Kings off-spinner R. Ashwin has asked the team for clarity regarding his role heading into the IPL 2026 season, before making a decision on his future with the franchise.

Sources had told Sportstar that there had been discussions between Ashwin and the management, and the off-spinner could explore new avenues with a few other franchises already expressing interest in his services.

The former India all-rounder played only nine matches across IPL 2025 after being bought for INR 9.25 crore at the auction and picked seven wickets at an economy rate of 9.42.

Social media has been abuzz about a possible trade deal with Ashwin’s former side Rajasthan Royals. There have also been reports about Sanju Samson heading from RR to the Chennai franchise.

“With regard to news about me or Sanju, a player has the right to express interest (if he wishes to be retained or not). Every player seeks clarity. As things stand, it’s not in my hands. I’ve just asked for clarity,” the spinner said via his Youtube channel.

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“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.”

“I played three years for RR. 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,” Ashwin said, explaining the backend process concerning player retentions ahead of a new season.

“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.

The deadline for player retentions will be communicated only after the dates of the mini-auction ahead of IPL 2026 are confirmed but trade deals can be confirmed during the offseason.