Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Venkatesh Iyer could be seen in Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) yellow jersey during the IPL 2026 season. Ashwin feels Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who shelled out a staggering ₹23.75 crore for the left-hander, might not retain him ahead of the mega auction, paving the way for CSK to make a move.
CSK eye left-handed reinforcements amid trade shake-up, says Ravichandran Ashwin
With reports suggesting a possible Sam Curran–Ravindra Jadeja trade to Rajasthan Royals (RR), Ashwin noted that CSK might look to bolster their left-handed batting options. Both Curran and Jadeja bring balance to the lineup, and if they leave, CSK will need players who can fill that void. According to Ashwin, Venkatesh Iyer or Nitish Rana could be ideal fits for the five-time champions.
“CSK can really strengthen this side. The moment Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja have gone there (to RR), I see Nitish Rana coming into the auction. So, Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer will 100% be on the radar of CSK. If Samson and Ruturaj open, it’ll be the best thing to happen. At 3, they’ll look at Venkatesh Iyer or Nitish Rana. Brevis and Dube will be at 4 and 5, and then they’ll try to insert Cameron Green at 6 because recently he has batted in the middle order for Australia,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Adding to his analysis, Ashwin explained that Venkatesh’s adaptability against spin and proven performances at Chepauk make him a strong contender for the CSK middle order. The left-hander averages 32 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, striking at 168.42—a record that showcases his comfort on slow, turning pitches.
Venkatesh and Rana’s spin game suits Chepauk conditions
“Venkatesh Iyer has played one or two good innings in Chepauk. He’s somewhat a replica of Shivam Dube, with long levers and power down the ground. But he can also play the sweep and reverse sweep effectively,” Ashwin observed. “Someone like Nitish Rana, who is shorter, can access the square boundaries and use the bounce better, making him another attractive option. There’s a great chance he will come to CSK.”
Ashwin’s comments underline CSK’s continued emphasis on players who thrive against spin and can accelerate in middle overs — a hallmark of the franchise’s success in Chennai conditions. With the 2026 mega auction approaching, both Venkatesh and Rana could emerge as key targets if CSK’s trade reshuffle materialises.
