IPL Auction 2025: CSK Fans Celebrate R Ashwin's Homecoming as Local Hero Returns After a Decade

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In a stunning turn of events, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the most iconic bowlers in IPL history, has made his return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a decade-long absence.

The IPL Auction 2025 saw the veteran offspinner’s homecoming become the talk of the town as fans erupted in joy, welcoming back the man who was once part of the team\'s maiden championship win.

Ashwin, who had a stellar season with the Dindigul Dragons in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), was the subject of fierce bidding at the auction in Jeddah. Starting at a base price of ₹2 crore, Ashwin immediately drew attention from multiple franchises. As the auction heated up, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and CSK quickly locked horns in what seemed like an inevitable tug-of-war.

The contest took a thrilling turn when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) joined in, turning the battle into a three-way rivalry. However, it was the Royals, led by their strategic approach, who pushed the bid to an impressive ₹8 crore, keeping CSK on their toes. Yet, in true Chennai style, CSK surged ahead, bringing the price up to ₹9.75 crore, clinching the deal. As the Rajasthan Royals bowed out, CSK fans were left in ecstatic celebration, knowing they had secured a true homecoming for the seasoned spinner.

Ashwin’s return to the yellow brigade brings much-needed experience to their bowling attack, especially as the franchise looks to add another title to their illustrious history. After years of playing for various franchises, including Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin is finally back where it all began. His last stint with CSK was in 2013, when he was an integral part of their title-winning squad. This marks a full-circle moment for the offspinner, who has remained a key figure in Indian cricket, particularly in white-ball formats.

On Twitter, CSK fans couldn’t hold back their excitement:

"Ravichandran Ashwin since his comeback: 4-0-14-2, 4-0-29-1, 4-0-20-3, 4-0-23-2. The man has put in effort and improved so much in both white and red ball over the last couple of years and is clearly showing it on the pitch. Proper comeback this is."

"Ravichandran Ashwin returns to Chennai Super Kings after 10 long years...!!!! He is sold to CSK for 9.75 Cr. The homecoming of Ashwin!"

"This is the moment we’ve waited for! ChennaiIPL brings Ashwin back to the Lion’s Pride. Thank you for reuniting us with one of our own. This season will be unforgettable! A big thanks to Rajasthan Royals as well!"

"Welcome back! Ravichandran Ashwin. The lion is ready to roar at Chepauk wickets again."