‘R Ashwin should have never left CSK’ – Former RCB star’s stunning take on legendary Indian spinner

Ravichandran Ashwin (Source: ARUN SANKAR/AFP via Getty Images)

Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from Indian cricket on August 27, bringing the curtains down on an illustrious career. However, he is willing to continue playing franchise cricket in leagues worldwide. The Tamil Nadu spinner has enrolled himself for the ILT20 auction, hoping to become the fourth Indian cricketer to play in the league after Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Ambati Rayudu.

Former South African captain and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart AB de Villiers hailed Ashwin for being a cricketer who loved studying the game. The cricketer-turned-expert also feels that Ashwin should never have left the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as he did not look settled at other franchises.

“Stellar career. It has got to be said, what a wonderful player. What a scientist of the game. A doctor, professor of the game. He always took it to the limits of the rules book. Generally got it right, even though he was frowned upon a little bit. I have a lot of respect for guys who study the game, and he was one of such cricketers,” said de Villiers during a 360 Live session on X.

“Incredible skill. A huge player and icon in India. He won so many games for Team India and CSK over the years. He played for other teams but never felt settled at those teams. In my opinion, he should have always stayed at CSK. Obviously, it was not up to him, as a lot of things go into that retention, all kinds of team selection. But I will always remember him as a yellow jersey guy,” added the RCB legend.

Ashwin represented CSK from 2008 to 2015. He went on to play for teams like Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Rising Pune Supergiant, and Punjab Kings. The Chennai-born also captained the Punjab Kings in IPL 2018. Ahead of IPL 2025, Ashwin returned to CSK for INR 9.75 crore. However, he had a dismal season, picking up only seven wickets from nine matches at an average of 40.43.

Very underrated with the bat in hand: De Villiers

De Villiers also praised Ashwin’s batting ability. He said that the 38-year-old’s batting ability is not highlighted enough, even though he has contributed on many occasions when India have been in worrisome situations.

“Very underrated with the bat in hand. It is not spoken enough about how he showed a lot of character with the bat in hand. Generally, with Team India in trouble, he would have sort of come through,” said de Villiers.

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