Washington Sundar to CSK? Reports Hint at Massive Trade Deal Ahead of IPL 2026

In a significant development before the IPL 2026 season, all-rounder Washington Sundar is said to be joining the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after Gujarat Titans (GT) agreed to trade him. GT reportedly accepted CSK's offer to exchange Sundar for Rs 3.2 crore, the same price at which they purchased him in the IPL 2025 auction.

Sources indicate that the decision by GT was made following the failure of the team to utilize Sundar's all-round abilities well during the previous season.

CSK Look Towards Sundar as Ashwin's Replacement

CSK's bid for Sundar seems to be an extension of their long game of enhancing their spin unit following Ravichandran Ashwin's IPL retirement earlier in the year. The franchise had been scouting for a good off-spinning all-rounder, and Sundar, hailing from Tamil Nadu, is just the fit they needed.

Ashwin, who was picked by CSK for Rs 9.75 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, had a poor season, scoring only 33 runs and claiming seven wickets from nine games. Following a disappointing campaign, he chose to retire from the IPL and prioritize playing in foreign T20 leagues.

Sundar's Time at Gujarat Titans

Washington Sundar's tenure with the Gujarat Titans was not as expected. He featured in just six games during the IPL 2025 season, managing a total of 133 runs and grabbing two wickets. Although Sundar produced flashes of brilliance, helping GT win crucial games, the all-rounder couldn't discover a regular spot in GT's playing XI, which was filled with all-rounders, ultimately resulting in this trade.

Rebuilding Phase of CSK

For CSK, the trade of Sundar is a major part of their rebuilding plan following a dismal season in 2025 where they ended at the bottom in the table for the first time in the history of the league. The five-time title-holders are trying to bring youngsters Indian players in to create a solid base for the future.

If the trade is completed, Sundar's presence will provide balance as well as local flavor to the CSK team in IPL 2026. Fans would be keen to watch the Tamil Nadu all-rounder in yellow as CSK looks to have a good comeback next year.