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"Find A Replacement": Sanjay Bangar Calls To Axe Ashwin, Pathirana From CSK Retention

Soumyajit Dutta

R Ashwin, MS Dhoni and Matheesha Pathirana [Source: @WorshipDhoni/X]R Ashwin, MS Dhoni and Matheesha Pathirana [Source: @WorshipDhoni/X]

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team eliminated from IPL 2025 after a four-wicket loss to Punjab Kings (PBKS), marking their first-ever failure to qualify for playoffs in consecutive seasons. The five-time champions, known for their consistency, faced a dismal campaign.

Plagued by inconsistent performances, CSK had an early exit. Their underwhelming season has ignited debates about potential roster changes. Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar suggested CSK might reconsider retaining veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and Matheesha Pathirana for the next seasons.

Bangar Questions Ashwin & Pathirana's Retention

Ashwin whose INR 9.75 crore price tag contrasts sharply with his returns—just five wickets in seven games at an average of 44.60 and an economy of 9.29. Bangar sharply pointed against Ashwin and Pathirana for the retention.

“Whether they retain Ashwin or not is going to be another big question because that's where the money is locked in. If they want to free up their purse a little bit, in the knowledge that they might not want to use Ashwin as much as they have used in this particular season. So, probably out of those big-ticket players, those are the two players (Ashwin and Pathirana) that they might just think of whether they want to keep them or maybe find a replacement for them,” said Bangar on Star Sports.

Notably, Ashwin’s struggles were glaring, with his best figures (1/31) coming in the opener against Mumbai Indians. Despite taking two wickets against PBKS, he leaked 48 runs in four overs, emblematic of his inconsistent form. 

The 38-year-old’s lack of impact, coupled with his hefty salary, has fueled criticism, with many pointing to his contributions as a key factor in CSK’s disappointing campaign.

Pathirana's Struggle With The Ball This Season

Notably, Matheesha Pathirana too had a dismal campaign. Despite picking up 8 wickets in 9 games, his economy rate of 10.40 and a strike rate of 19.00 underline his lack of control and impact in crucial moments. 

In particular, he conceded 45 runs against both PBKS and LSG, 52 runs in a costly outing against PBKS earlier in the season, and remained wicketless in three of his last five games. His inability to contain runs has hurt Chennai Super Kings during key matches, making his overall campaign underwhelming so far.