The preparations for the IPL 2027 mini-auction have gathered momentum, with franchises making significant changes to their squads through trades and releases. Among the latest developments, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) completed a four-player trade on November 5, triggering discussions about the strategy behind the unexpected deal. Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has now shared his assessment, questioning Chennai’s decision while suggesting that the franchise could have a bigger auction plan in mind.
Under the agreement, CSK traded Indian fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed and Australian pacer Nathan Ellis to SRH. In return, Chennai secured the services of England’s explosive batter Liam Livingstone and Australian bowling all-rounder Jack Edwards. Livingstone reportedly joined CSK at a reduced price of ₹6 crore, making his acquisition an interesting part of the deal.
Ravichandran Ashwin backs CSK’s decision to take a punt on Liam Livingstone
One of Chennai’s major concerns heading into IPL 2027 is finding a reliable power-hitter who can finish innings effectively, particularly in the death overs. With MS Dhoni‘s participation in the upcoming season uncertain after missing the entire 2026 campaign, the franchise could be looking at alternatives to strengthen its lower-middle order.
Ashwin believes Livingstone could potentially address that requirement. The English batter is known for his ability to attack pace bowling and clear the boundaries, qualities that could make him an important addition to Chennai’s batting lineup. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin explained why the reduced acquisition cost makes the move worth considering.
“At a reduced cost of 6 crores, CSK has taken a punt on Livingstone. He can smash, and CSK have been searching for a pace-hitting finisher as a replacement for Dhoni. He might turn a corner as a pace-hitter in Chepauk,” Ashwin said.
The former CSK spinner suggested that Chennai could be hoping Livingstone rediscovers his best form and becomes an effective option at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Ashwin believes SRH have gained more from the trade
While acknowledging Livingstone’s potential, Ashwin was not entirely convinced by Chennai’s decision to part ways with two established bowling options. Khaleel and Ellis have the experience and skills to contribute regularly with the ball. Their departure could leave CSK with questions about their pace-bowling combination, particularly considering that both players were capable of featuring in the first-choice XI.
Ashwin also pointed out that the trade could significantly benefit Hyderabad. SRH play their home matches at a high-scoring venue, where having an additional defensive bowling option can be valuable.
“This trade came out of the syllabus. I am surprised CSK made this move. This trade is a massive gain for SRH. Hyderabad is a high-scoring ground, and SRH has bolstered their side with another defensive bowler in Ellis. CSK has given away two first-11 players. But whether Livingstone and Edwards are first-11 options for CSK remains to be seen,” he added.
Also READ: Liam Livingstone joins CSK, Nathan Ellis moves to SRH in four-player trade ahead of IPL 2027 auction
Ashwin highlights CSK’s bigger objective
Despite questioning the immediate benefits of the deal, Ashwin believes Chennai might be working towards a larger objective ahead of the December auction.
The franchise has also released Prashant Veer and several other players, potentially creating substantial financial flexibility. According to Ashwin, CSK could enter the auction with a purse of around ₹25-30 crore, giving them the opportunity to compete aggressively for high-profile players. He specifically mentioned Cameron Green as a possible marquee target while also highlighting Chennai’s reported interest in acquiring a quality left-arm spinner.
“But I feel CSK may be planning something internally that’s not evident on the outside. By releasing Prashant Veer and a few others, they could enter the auction with 25 to 30 crores. Maybe they are sensing a marquee player like Cameron Green entering the auction. I’ve also heard that CSK are looking hard for the left-arm spinner,” Ashwin further stated.
Also READ: 3 players CSK can release ahead of IPL 2027 auction