R Ashwin, the star India off-spinner, has joined Chennai Super Kings ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). However, it's not in the role of a player but in a different capacity. While Ashin has represented the franchise in the past from 2008 to 2015, he is currently plying his trade for the Rajasthan Royals )RR) in the IPL. Despite being a contracted player with RR, Ashwin has taken up the respobsibility of CSK's high-performance centre.
The veteran cricketer was apparently roped by the owners of India Cements. The centre is likely to start operating in its full capacity before the start of IPL 2024. It has been learnt that the Chennai-born cricketer, who has over 500 Test wickets, is set to play a key role in the development of CSK's academies.
READ HERE | Pakistan Slammed By Ex-Captain For Charging 25$ For Private Dinner For Fans In USA, Video Goes Viral- WATCH
"Growing the game and contributing to the cricketing fraternity is my primary focus. I feel elated to be back to where it all began for me," Ashwin said on his return to India Cements.
Excited To Have Ashwin Back: CSK CEO
Meanwhile, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was also happy to have the player back at the franchise albeit at a different capacity.
"We are excited to have Ashwin back. He will have a huge role to play at Superkings Ventures and our High-Performance Centre. He is one of the best cricketers from Tamil Nadu and is known for his drive towards excellence. His commitment to the game at any level, be it for India, Tamil Nadu, or even the club, is well known. He will be a great person to guide the center and nurture the young talents coming through," he said as per a report carried by Sportstar.
ALSO READ | R Ashwin Might Go Unsold In IPL 2025 Auction: Virender Sehwag
The move has sparked speculation over Ashwin's potential move to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as a player which remains a likely possibilty given that there is a mega-auction ahead before IPL 2025. However, no official confirmation has come in that regard.