In a significant cricket transfer, experienced off-spinner R Ashwin has reunited with India Cements. This paves the way for his potential return to the beloved Chennai Super Kings franchise. As part of the deal, Ashwin will take charge of the newly established Chennai Super Kings High Performance Centre. Located on the outskirts of the city, the facility is expected to be fully operational ahead of the next Indian Premier League season.
The transfer opens up the possibility of Ashwin linking up once again with CSK during the major player auction planned for later this year. Given it will be a mega auction, a trade between CSK and Rajasthan Royals is ruled out as they cannot retain him through that process. However, if CSK is unable to secure Ashwin’s services at the auction, another option could be a post-auction trade.
CSK CEO Kari Viswanthan stated “It will depend on auction dynamics as we have no control over that. For now, Ashwin will oversee our performance center and related programmes. He has rejoined India Cements and will represent their teams.”
Ashwin’s return to India Cements has been in the works for some time. Just prior to the recent IPL, India Cements owner N Srinivasan heaped lavish praise on Ashwin for achieving the landmark of 100 Tests and 500 Test wickets. “You have a big future role to play” Srinivasan remarked. The HPC is envisaged as a hub for franchise players from around the globe to train year-round.
“Promoting cricket and helping players is my main goal” said Ashwin of his new responsibilities. The seasoned all-rounder will complete formalizing the move upon returning from a brief break in the coming weeks.
After starting his domestic career impressively, Ashwin rose to national prominence during his initial CSK stint from 2008-2015. This represents his second term with India Cements and chance to potentially reignite his CSK connection.
