Veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday (June 5) took up a new role with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – the IPL franchise he represented from 2008 to 2015.

While Ashwin remains a part of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad in the Indian Premier League, he assumed the responsibility of CSK's high-performance center after being signed by India Cements.

"Growing the game and contributing to the cricketing fraternity is my primary focus. I feel elated to be back to where it all began for me," Ashwin said on his return to India Cements, as quoted by Sportstar.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan also expressed his delight to have the off-spinner resume his association with the franchise.

"We are excited to have Ashwin back. He will have a huge role to play at Superkings Ventures and our High-Performance Centre. He is one of the best cricketers from Tamil Nadu and is known for his drive towards excellence. His commitment to the game at any level, be it for India, Tamil Nadu, or even the club, is well known. He will be a great person to guide the center and nurture the young talents coming through," Viswanathan said, as per Sportstar.

Meanwhile, the development has sparked speculations over Ashwin’s potential return to CSK ahead of the IPL 2025 season.

Notably, a mega auction will take place before the next year’s IPL. While the details of retention aren't finalized, reports are rife that the franchises might only be allowed to retain a maximum of four players. If that case, the Royals might let go of the seasoned off-spinner.

While playing for CSK under MS Dhoni's leadership, Ashwin made a name for himself in cricket. He had won the IPL with CSK in 2010 and 2011.