‘Don’t think it’s happening’ – Aakash Chopra on Washington Sundar’s rumoured switch to CSK

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has opined that Washington Sundar is unlikely to be traded to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. While acknowledging that Sundar received limited opportunities with the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2025, Chopra noted that the spin-bowling all-rounder enjoyed the team environment and is likely to stay with the franchise.

With Ravichandran Ashwin retiring from the IPL, CSK will be without his services in the upcoming season. As per several reports, the franchise is interested in acquiring Sundar as a potential replacement for Ashwin.

“Another news that came was whether Washington Sundar can go to CSK. He told (Ravichandran) Ashwin that he doesn’t have any such plans. I don’t think he will go, although Washi has got less chances. Washi mentioned that as well that he didn’t get enough chances, but he said that he likes the atmosphere and the setup, and that he doesn’t want to go,” Chopra said.

“However, if Ashwin has gone, Washi Sundar will fit in seamlessly in his place, and he is from Chennai as well. However, I don’t think the Gujarat Titans will leave him that easily. I don’t think that’s happening,” he added.

Rahul can solve many problems for KKR: Chopra

Chopra suggested that KL Rahul’s potential move to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could help address several of the franchise’s existing challenges. He also observed that the Delhi Capitals (DC) might show interest in acquiring Rinku Singh in return, though he questioned whether KKR would be willing to part ways with one of their most dependable finishers.

“There was news about KL Rahul that he could actually go to KKR. KKR will be very happy. If they don’t get Sanju (Samson), they can get KL Rahul. He can come and open, captain, and keep. Their many problems can be solved if they get a keeper-batter of Sanju or KL Rahul’s level,” Chopra said.

“However, they cannot give any player to anyone. Whom will they offer to Delhi? Delhi might be slightly interested if they offer Rinku Singh, but will KKR release Rinku? That’s a big question, although they didn’t use him that well,” he added.