The whispers around a blockbuster move have gained momentum: according to reports, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are closing in on a trade to acquire Australia-India all-rounder Washington Sundar from the Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026.
With veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently retiring from the league, CSK are scrambling to reinforce their spin and all-round depth—and Sundar is being touted as the like-for-like replacement.
CSK and Washington Sundar Deal Details
Washington Sundar, born 5 October 1999 in Chennai, is a left-handed batter who bowls right-arm off-spin. In the IPL he has appeared in 66 matches, scored 511 runs at a strike rate above 126, and claimed 39 wickets at an average of 36.82 and economy near 7.70. Around the 2025 auction Sundar was acquired by Gujarat Titans for INR 3.20 crore.
For CSK, the attraction is clear: Sundar offers Indian-domestic all-round talent—spin control, lower-order hitting and familiarity with Chennai conditions—that fits the franchise’s rebuilding young brigade. His left-hand batting and off-spin bowling add balance, especially with Ashwin no longer in the ranks.
Sundar as Ashwin’s Replacement
Ashwin’s retirement leaves a big tactical void at CSK—both in terms of his spin craft and leadership among seam-up campaigns. Sundar is being positioned as a near-direct replacement: an off-spinner capable of middle-overs control and handy late-innings batting.
Some analysts believe Sundar’s Chennai roots and younger profile make him a smart long-term fit, whereas Ashwin brought decades of experience. The transition won’t be identical, but Sundar’s skill set aligns closely with the role Ashwin played.
That said, all this remains report-based at present. CSK and Gujarat Titans have yet to issue official confirmation. If the deal goes through, it signals CSK’s full-on commitment to refreshing their squad around youth and versatility. Until then, fans will wait for the official announcement in due time.
