IPL 2026: Ashwin opens up on CSK’s plan to bid for Shreyas Iyer first

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is providing valuable insights into the strategy development of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the mini-IPL auction 2026 that involves a heavy rebuild after a forgettable last season in 2025. Large auction purse of INR 43.40 crore makes joint effort awaited at that very scene.

Ashwin, pardon my French, informed that any incoming fast all-rounder should be an Indian with specific reference to Venkatesh Iyer topping their wishlist. This leaves the door open for the chase for an overseas all-rounder as well, and someone like Liam Livingstone, who has been in stunning form of late at the ILT20 2025, clearly makes the best option for them.

During an interaction on his official YouTube page he quoted:

"... And it has to be Venkatesh Iyer first… With Maxwell out, it'll be Livingstone for the other slot."

It All Makes Sense for CSK, Venkatesh Iyer and Livingstone

Renderer Williams, notwithstanding the 2025 edition of KKR, could be seen as a high-value domestic talent coming to the table with the highest base price of ₹2 crore. But dared to dream: He just might end up becoming a Chennai Super King.

Livingstone (TBC) was released by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and becomes an underlined choice for crowd's cheer with his recent dynamism-as one of the best overseas picks available.

CSK Strategy: Midwent Releases in Strategy

To add extra liquidity to their auction-competing two hands, CSK jettisoned Matheesha Pathirana as well as several players. Ashwin said that there was no shock in this and that it was planned to clear the way for premium allrounders.

He noted:

"Most teams did expect Andre Russell to go into the auction. CSK either wanted Russell or Cameron Green, but with just ₹30 crore in the purse, they had no chance. Upfront, letting go of Pathirana did make sense to them."

Supported by its own series of retirements, an additional 9 crores is being given to the franchise.

Why Does CSK Need an Overhaul

Following an unthinkable IPL season, such a reality has positioned CSK for a much-needed revival fashioned in Ashwin's perception of how startups prepare for future ventures.

With the failure of an entire IPL season in memory, and some season groups next to his paintings, CSK is reset essentially, and this tendency is very well represented by Ashwin's aggressive plans for the auctions.

Returning a new-look, spirited team during IPL 2023, be prepared for CSK to introduce a pile driver set-up including high-impact all-rounders and a new team design.