Washington Sundar to CSK deal off as GT head coach Ashish Nehra refuses IPL 2026 trade

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won’t be getting Washington Sundar as a replacement for Ravichandran Ashwin. Since the veteran spinner announced his Indian Premier League (IPL) retirement in August, CSK have been hunting for a replacement.

CSK-GT trade rumours for Washington Sundar

Last month, reports came out that CSK were in talks with the Gujarat Titans (GT) for a potential trade. As expected, Washington Sundar was the subject of discussions. It was believed that it’ll be a cash deal for the all-rounder who was bought for INR 3.20 crore.

The news caught fire after Tamil Nadu bowler Krishnamoorthy Vignesh, while talking on Ashwin’s YouTube channel, stated that the deal was virtually confirmed. However, a few days later Ashwin clarified the matter. The former India cricketer revealed that Washington had no idea about a potential trade between GT and CSK.

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No deal, says Ashish Nehra

According to Cricbuzz, the trade won’t be happening before the deadline for IPL 2026 auction retentions. It’s understood that GT head coach Ashish Nehra doesn’t want to let go of Washington.

The all-rounder is an all-format player for India and has been playing in the IPL since 2017. Although he didn’t get much game time last season due to GT’s structuring, the 2022 champions value Washington immensely.

Of course, since the IPL 2025 season ended, his stock has risen even more. Just yesterday, Washington played an astonishing unbeaten 49-run knock from just 23 balls in Hobart. But Nehra’s decision wasn’t influenced by that. He had already made up his mind about Washington continuing at GT.

One must understand that Washington might ask GT to release him. Considering what he offers, INR 3.20 crore isn’t a justified price for his services. Moreover, he played just 6 matches last season. But one way GT might convince him to stay is by increasing his salary. He’ll have to release some other players, but it can be done.

The post Washington Sundar to CSK deal off as GT head coach Ashish Nehra refuses IPL 2026 trade appeared first on Inside Sport India.