As excitement builds for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) delivered a unique and heartwarming event at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The franchise hosted World Chess Champion Dommaraju Gukesh as part of their Chennai Superstar Programme, an initiative that celebrates the city’s most accomplished athletes.
The event saw an extraordinary meeting between D Gukesh and former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, bridging two of Chennai’s most celebrated sports—chess and cricket. This interaction, which took place at Chepauk, was a tribute to Chennai’s rich sporting culture and brought together two icons who have made the city proud on the global stage.
D Gukesh and Ravichandran Ashwin: A Meeting of Champions at Chepauk
In a moment that captured the spirit of Chennai’s sporting greatness, Dommaraju Gukesh, India’s youngest-ever World Chess Champion, stepped into the iconic Chepauk Stadium, where he was warmly welcomed by Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s finest off-spinners.
The Chennai Superstar Programme was designed to honor and celebrate athletes beyond cricket, and Gukesh, a Chennai-born chess prodigy, was the perfect choice. The teaser released by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showcased the young chess master’s arrival, highlighting his deep connection to the city and its sports culture.
Ashwin, who himself hails from Chennai and has been a stalwart of Indian cricket, presented Gukesh with a customized CSK jersey—bright yellow, featuring his name and the number 18 on the back. The number holds special significance, as it is synonymous with chess legend Viswanathan Anand, Chennai’s first chess Grandmaster and a five-time World Champion.
But the meeting wasn’t just about formalities. In a moment that perfectly symbolized the fusion of two strategic games—cricket and chess—Ashwin invited Gukesh to a friendly game on a chessboard. The two sports icons, both known for their analytical approach and game awareness, played a short but engaging battle before signing the chessboard, creating a special memento that will be cherished in the history of Chennai’s sports culture.
CSK’s Social Media Teases Special Video Featuring Gukesh
The teaser shared by CSK on their social media created immense buzz among fans. The caption read:
“World champion of chess! A Chennai paiyan at heart! A sparring with Ashwin! Introducing Chennai Superstars! Get set to meet Gukesh and his love for the city! Coming Soon.”
The upcoming video is expected to showcase Gukesh’s deep admiration for Chennai and his excitement at being recognized by one of India’s most successful IPL franchises.
Ashwin’s Emotional Homecoming to CSK After Nine Years
While Gukesh continues to soar in the world of chess, the event also highlighted the return of Ravichandran Ashwin to CSK—a moment that has been eagerly awaited by the Yellow Army.
Ashwin, who was part of CSK from 2009 to 2015, played a key role in the team’s early success, helping them win two IPL titles (2010, 2011) and the Champions League T20 (2010, 2014). Over the years, he played for various franchises, including Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Rajasthan Royals (RR), but Chepauk has always been home for him.
During the IPL 2025 mega auction, CSK brought back Ashwin for INR 9.75 crore, marking a grand homecoming for one of their most successful spinners.
Ashwin’s Role in IPL 2025: A Crucial Addition to CSK’s Spin Arsenal
At 38 years old, Ashwin remains one of the most intelligent and adaptable spinners in the game. With over 180 wickets in 212 IPL matches at an economy rate of 7.12, his presence will be vital for CSK, especially on Chepauk’s spin-friendly pitches.
Why Ashwin’s Presence Matters for CSK
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Spin Dominance at Chepauk:
CSK’s home ground has historically favored spinners, and with Ashwin back in the mix alongside Ravindra Jadeja, the franchise now boasts a world-class spin duo. -
Powerplay Specialist:
Unlike many spinners, Ashwin has the rare ability to bowl inside the powerplay, keeping aggressive batters in check. -
Experience and Leadership:
As a veteran of Indian cricket, Ashwin’s strategic insights will be invaluable to CSK’s new captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and younger bowlers in the squad.
CSK vs. Mumbai Indians (MI): A High-Stakes IPL 2025 Opener
CSK will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign with a blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23 at Chepauk. The game is expected to be a fierce battle between two of IPL’s most successful teams.
While CSK is undergoing a transitional phase under new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mumbai Indians remain a formidable force with their powerful batting lineup. CSK’s team management is yet to confirm the final XI, but Ashwin’s tactical acumen and ability to contain MI’s explosive batters could make him a game-changer in the high-stakes opener.
Ashwin vs. MI: The Key Matchups to Watch
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Ashwin vs. Rohit Sharma:
The battle between these two veterans will be crucial. Ashwin has troubled Rohit in the past, and his variations could play a key role. -
Ashwin vs. Suryakumar Yadav:
MI’s star batter is one of the best players of spin in T20s. Can Ashwin find a way to outfox him with his experience? -
Ashwin vs. Hardik Pandya:
MI’s new captain, Hardik Pandya, will look to attack spinners, making his duel with Ashwin an interesting one.
CSK’s Vision Under Ruturaj Gaikwad: A New Era Begins
With MS Dhoni stepping aside as captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad has taken the reins of one of the most successful IPL franchises. While Dhoni remains a part of the squad, this season will be about shaping a new era for CSK.
- Gaikwad, who has been one of CSK’s most consistent batters, will have the challenge of leading a side filled with experienced campaigners like Jadeja, Ashwin, Moeen Ali, and Ben Stokes.
- The inclusion of Ashwin, one of the most tactical cricketers in the game, will give Gaikwad an experienced head to rely on for crucial bowling strategies.
CSK fans, known for their undying support, will be eager to see if the team can continue their dominance in the post-Dhoni era.
Final Thoughts: A Special Moment for Chennai Sports Fans
The meeting between D Gukesh and Ravichandran Ashwin at Chepauk wasn’t just about celebrating individual achievements—it was a testament to Chennai’s deep-rooted sporting culture. It symbolized how the city continues to produce world-class athletes across multiple disciplines, from chess and cricket to football and athletics.
As IPL 2025 draws closer, Ashwin’s return to CSK and Gukesh’s rise as a chess sensation serve as reminders that Chennai’s passion for sports knows no boundaries. With IPL fever gripping the city, fans can look forward to another thrilling season, filled with iconic moments, intense rivalries, and unforgettable performances.
With Ashwin back in yellow and CSK set for a new chapter under Gaikwad, the question remains:
Will Chennai Super Kings reclaim their throne in IPL 2025?
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