Homecoming of IPL Stars: R Ashwin, Sam Curran, Glenn Maxwell & More Return to Their Franchises in IPL 2025

When the IPL auction hits, it’s like a reunion of old friends—some you haven’t seen in a while, and others who you can't wait to have a chat with again. For fans and teams alike, there’s nothing like the thrill of seeing familiar faces return to their IPL franchises. With the 2025 season on the horizon, some big names are heading back to their old stomping grounds, and the excitement is palpable.

But for a few cricketers, home was calling, and the pull of their former franchises proved irresistible. From explosive batsmen to crafty spinners and deadly pacers, the 2025 season promises a whole lot of familiar faces, reminding us that in the IPL, sometimes, you just can't stay away for too long.

R Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey is one of a true comeback king. After his stint with Rajasthan Royals, where he made an impact as a senior spinner, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opened their arms wide to welcome him back home for IPL 2025. For a franchise that thrives on familiarity, loyalty, and legacy, Ashwin’s return feels almost like destiny—like the prodigal son returning after a long journey. Bought for Rs 9.75 crore at the Jeddah auction, Ashwin’s move to CSK is a moment we didn’t know we needed.

The CSK camp has been home to some of the best spinners in the game, from the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan to the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja. Now, with Ashwin back in yellow, it feels like the gang’s all here.

Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer’s time away from the IPL has been like a cliffhanger in a suspense movie—everyone knew he'd return, but we just weren’t sure when or where. Well, the answer is clear now. Jofra is back with Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2025 after being acquired for Rs 12.50 crore.

His return adds a lethal edge to the Royals’ attack. With his ability to bowl high-speed deliveries that could knock your helmet off (sometimes literally), he’s the kind of player who can change the game in an instant.

Trent Boult

If you were to make a list of the deadliest yorker specialists in world cricket, Trent Boult would be up there with the best of them. Boult has been the heartbeat of Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack, and now, after a stint away, he’s back where he belongs. Bought for Rs 12.50 crore at the 2025 auction, the Kiwi pacer will reunite with Jasprit Bumrah—one of the most feared bowling duos in recent IPL history.

Trent’s return to MI isn’t just about numbers; it’s about chemistry. His yorkers, which seem to come from another dimension, will once again be paired with Bumrah’s deadly variations. This partnership could spell trouble for any batting line-up, and for MI fans, it’s like Christmas came early.

Glenn Maxwell

The IPL is never quite the same without Glenn Maxwell’s larger-than-life presence. After a somewhat lean 2024 season, the Australian all-rounder is back with Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 after a fierce bidding war, with Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad also throwing their hats in the ring. While Maxwell’s form might’ve been patchy, his explosive batting is the kind of chaos you want when your team needs a lift.

Punjab Kings fans will be hoping for an explosive season as they look to make a mark with Glenn back in their line-up.

Sam Curran

From Rs 18.50 crore in 2023 to Rs 2.40 crore in 2025, Sam Curran’s IPL journey has seen quite a rollercoaster ride. But now, Chennai Super Kings have bagged him for a more modest sum, bringing the English all-rounder back into the fold. A year ago, Punjab Kings didn’t exercise their Right-to-Match, but now, CSK’s strategy seems to be paying off.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is another seasoned player whose IPL homecoming feels particularly special. He began his IPL journey with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2009 and was part of the side for two seasons. After a successful stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad, RCB secured Bhuvneshwar’s services for Rs 10.75 crore at the IPL 2025 auction.