Ravichandran Ashwin represented Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025. The former Indian cricketer has shared his predictions for the priciest buys in the upcoming IPL 2026 auction. Ashwin believes that acquiring top Indian players will be challenging for franchises, which could lead to overseas stars commanding high prices.
Although IPL 2026 is still some time away, excitement is already building among fans. Trade rumors are swirling, with several high-profile players at the center of speculation, keeping both supporters and former cricketers deeply engaged.
One major rumor suggests Sanju Samson might leave Rajasthan Royals (RR) to join CSK, potentially replacing Ravichandran Ashwin . Meanwhile, the auction is expected later this year, and teams will soon release their lists of players available for bidding.
Many big names who underperformed in IPL 2025 are likely to enter the auction, setting the stage for intense bidding wars. It wouldn’t be surprising if auction records are broken once again.
Ravichandran Ashwin on Mitchell Owen and Cameron Green: “They’ll command big prices as foreign all-rounders”
According to Ravichandran Ashwin, franchises are unlikely to release their top Indian players this auction, with the spotlight shifting to Australian talent. Speaking on his Hindi YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin explained:
“This will be a mini auction, and finding Indian players will be tough—mostly, only new players will come through. The expensive picks will be overseas players. Letting go of a major Indian player is a risky move for any franchise. Expect a lot of Australian players entering the auction,” he said.
Ravichandran Ashwin specifically predicted that Mitchell Owen and Cameron Green would attract hefty bids. He expects the auction to be a high-stakes battle, with teams competing in the Rs 25-30 crore range.
“You have Mitchell Owen, who played three games as a replacement for Punjab Kings, and then there’s Cameron Green entering the auction. Both are foreign all-rounders, so they’ll go for big money,” Ravichandran Ashwin noted.
He added, “This mini-auction will be a game worth Rs 25-30 crore for every team.”
Recently, Ashwin also revealed that he has sought clarity from Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Reports suggested that the off-spinner told the franchise he’s open to parting ways if he doesn’t fit into their plans.
Ashwin endured a tough IPL 2025 season with the ball, featuring in nine matches but conceding runs at an economy rate of 9.12—his highest ever, surpassing his previous 8.49. He took only seven wickets and was one of the key reasons behind CSK’s disappointing campaign.
