Ravichandran Ashwin admits he always wanted to play for RCB – Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Surprise Desire to Play for RCB
A Surprising Admission from a Chennai Icon
In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), loyalties are often fierce and fan narratives even fiercer. For years, the rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been characterized by intense friction, with fans often debating the prestige of their respective teams. A common sentiment among the ardent CSK fanbase has been the claim that no player who has donned the yellow jersey would ever truly aspire to join the ranks of the RCB squad. However, one of the most decorated cricketers in the history of the league, Ravichandran Ashwin, has stepped forward to shatter that misconception.
The Mega-Auction Perspective
As the dust settled on the IPL 2025 mega-auction, Ravichandran Ashwin reflected on his career path and the potential roads not taken. While he ultimately returned to the Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin admitted that his professional outlook was far broader than the binary of ‘CSK or bust.’ He confessed that he would have been more than content had two other franchises secured his services during the auction: the Rajasthan Royals and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
This revelation is significant, particularly given the historical context of the CSK-RCB rivalry. Ashwin, who has been a pillar of Indian spin bowling for over a decade, provided an objective view on his career, noting that his desire to play for these teams stemmed from genuine appreciation for their culture, the memories he created, and the support he received from their fanbases.
Why Rajasthan and Bengaluru?
Ashwin’s affection for the Rajasthan Royals is well-documented. During his stint with the ‘Men in Pink,’ he formed a formidable partnership with Yuzvendra Chahal, proving to be a nightmare for opposing batters while also contributing valuable runs down the order. The environment in Rajasthan clearly left a lasting positive impact on the veteran spinner.
Addressing the prospect of joining RCB, Ashwin was equally forthright. He stated, “If I want to join any other team than CSK, then it’s RR or RCB. Had RR picked me instead of Chennai in that mega auction, I would have been very happy. If they both didn’t pick me up and RCB did, then too I would have been happy.”
He further elaborated on the reasons behind this sentiment, citing his successful bowling performances at their home stadiums and the incredible encouragement he has consistently received from the crowds. For a player of Ashwin’s stature, the atmosphere and the connection with the fans play a pivotal role in his enjoyment of the game.
A Decorated IPL Journey
Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is a testament to the evolution of T20 cricket. Throughout his illustrious journey, he has featured for five different franchises: Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and the Rajasthan Royals. Across 221 IPL matches between 2009 and 2025, he proved his worth time and again, securing 187 wickets.
His career is also defined by his involvement in high-pressure scenarios, having appeared in multiple IPL finals with the Super Kings, the Delhi Capitals, and the Rajasthan Royals. While he secured two titles early in his career with CSK in 2010 and 2011, his impact on the game extends far beyond trophy counts. His ability to adapt and perform under the pressure of different team cultures remains one of his most underrated qualities.
Challenging the Narrative
The sentiment expressed by Ashwin serves as a reminder that players often view the IPL through a different lens than the fans. While supporters are deeply attached to the identities of their specific teams, professionals like Ashwin appreciate the unique qualities of various franchises. By admitting his willingness to play for RCB, he has effectively dismantled the myth that current or former CSK players would find it beneath them to represent the Bengaluru-based outfit.
Ultimately, cricket remains a sport where mutual respect and admiration for talent transcend team boundaries. Ravichandran Ashwin’s honest reflections provide a refreshing insight into the mind of a veteran who has seen it all, played for many, and maintains an open mind toward the diverse cultures that make the IPL the world’s most exciting T20 league.
