• Sportzyverse
• IPL 2024
• 06/05/2024
• 0 Comments

In a significant move, veteran off-spinner R Ashwin rejoined India Cements, which paved the way for his return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) setup. As part of this high-profile transfer, Ashwin is set to take charge of the Chennai Super Kings High-Performance Centre, a state-of-the-art facility being developed on the outskirts of Chennai. The centre is expected to be fully operational before the start of the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Potential Reunion with CSK

This transfer raises the strong possibility of Ashwin reuniting with CSK during the upcoming big-player auctions scheduled for the end of the year. Given that this will be a major auction, a trade-off between CSK and Ashwin’s current IPL team, Rajasthan Royals, is ruled out since they won’t be able to retain him. If CSK fails to secure Ashwin at the auction, the franchise could still explore a trade post-auction.

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“That totally depends on the auction dynamics because we can’t have control over it. We have to wait and see if the opportunity presents itself,” said CSK CEO Kari Viswanathan. “First up, he will be taking charge of our High-Performance Centre and will handle the cricketing side of it, including the programmes and everything. We have signed him back. He is now part of the CSK venture and will also play for the India Cements teams in the TNCA First-Division,” he added.

Ashwin’s transition to India Cements has been in the pipeline for the last couple of years. N Srinivasan, owner of India Cements, lauded Ashwin during an event celebrating his 100th Test and 500 Test wickets milestone, hinting at a bigger role for the cricketer in the future.

Role in High-Performance Centre

With the High-Performance Centre (HPC) coming up, CSK believes Ashwin will be instrumental in its success. The centre aims to be a comprehensive training hub for players from CSK’s academies in Chennai, Johannesburg, and Texas.

“Growing the game and contributing to the cricketing fraternity is my primary focus,” Ashwin said about his new role. After a short break, the all-rounder will complete the formalities of his new position in the coming weeks.

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Ashwin’s domestic career began with promise, and he gained national prominence during his stint with CSK in the 2009 and 2010 IPL seasons. His outstanding performances with CSK opened doors to the national team, making him an integral part of the franchise from 2008 to 2015.

This move marks a significant step in Ashwin’s illustrious career as he plays a role that blends his playing experience with leadership and developmental responsibilities.