IPL 2026 Trade Window: Washington Sundar to Join CSK? Gujarat Titans Agree to Trade Deal
IPL 2026 Trade Window: In what could be a major development ahead of the IPL 2026 Trade Window, all-rounder Washington Sundar is reportedly set to join the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after Gujarat Titans (GT) agreed to trade him ahead of the upcoming season.
According to a report by Samayam Tamil, the Titans have agreed to transfer Sundar to CSK for Rs 3.2 crore, the same price they paid for him at the IPL 2025 auction. The report adds that GT’s inability to make the best use of the spin-bowling all-rounder played a key role in the trade.
CSK eye Sundar as Ashwin’s replacement
CSK’s pursuit of Sundar appears to be part of their long-term strategy to rebuild their spin department following Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL earlier this year. The Chennai franchise had been exploring options for an off-spinning all-rounder, and Sundar, who hails from Tamil Nadu and began his IPL career with Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017 – fits the profile perfectly.
Ashwin, who was bought for Rs 9.75 crore by CSK at the IPL 2025 mega auction, endured a tough season, managing just 33 runs and seven wickets in nine games. While CSK were expected to release him ahead of IPL 2026, the veteran off-spinner chose to retire and explore opportunities in overseas T20 leagues instead.
Sundar’s underwhelming stint with Gujarat Titans
Washington Sundar featured in only six matches for GT during the IPL 2025 season, scoring 133 runs and picking up two wickets. Despite showing flashes of his all-round ability, he struggled to find a consistent role in a side packed with all-rounders, which eventually paved the way for the trade.
CSK’s rebuilding mission
For CSK, the move marks another step in their rebuilding process after a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them finish at the bottom of the table for the first time in their history. The five-time champions are reportedly looking to bring in more young Indian talent to form a core for the future and Sundar’s inclusion could be a key part of that strategy.
If the trade goes through, fans can expect to see Washington Sundar don the yellow jersey in IPL 2026, adding both balance and local flavour to the CSK lineup.