Sun Mar 23 14:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Ashwin’s Triumphant Return to CSK Marks IPL 2025 Opener
**Chennai, India** – Ravichandran Ashwin will make a highly anticipated return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their opening match of IPL 2025 against Mumbai Indians on March 23rd. The off-spinner, acquired by CSK for ₹9.75 crore in the recent auction, rejoins the franchise after a nine-year absence.
Ashwin, who recently retired from international cricket, first played for CSK in 2009, playing a pivotal role in their 2010 and 2011 title wins. His impressive CSK record includes 90 wickets in 94 innings, placing him third on the franchise’s all-time wicket-takers list, behind Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja. He boasts an average of 24.2 and an economy rate of 6.5 during his time with CSK.
The match will be held at CSK’s home ground, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, a venue where Ashwin excels, holding the record for most IPL wickets taken (50). Throughout his IPL career, Ashwin has accumulated 180 wickets in 212 matches, with significant contributions also at the Wankhede Stadium (17 wickets) and the IS Bindra Stadium (11 wickets).
CSK fans are eagerly awaiting Ashwin’s comeback, and the veteran spinner is expected to be a key player in their campaign. His return adds considerable excitement to the IPL 2025 season opener.
First Piper 