One of India’s best spinners of the modern era, Ravichandran Ashwin, has established a storied career in both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket. Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL journey demonstrates his development as a bowler and leader in the game’s shortest format. He is renowned for his keen cricketing intellect, deft variations, and daring approach.
Early Years with Chennai Super Kings (2009–2015)
In 2009, Ashwin started his IPL career with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Ashwin rapidly established himself as a vital member of the team under the guidance of coach Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni. He stood out for his ability to bowl in the powerplay, frequently against the top hitters in the world. The seasons of 2010 and 2011 stood out in particular. With his carrom ball and tactical changes, Ashwin frequently destroyed top-order hitters, contributing significantly to CSK’s back-to-back championship victories. One of the most memorable IPL events is his dismissal of Chris Gayle in the 2011 final against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Rise as a Tactical Bowler
Ashwin had established a reputation as a bowler who performed well under duress by the middle of the 2010s. Instead of depending only on turn, he frequently outwitted batters with his cunning, and his economy rate was always excellent. Ashwin’s services went beyond only taking wickets; Dhoni relied on him because of his astute bowling in pressure-filled circumstances.
Transition to Rising Pune Supergiant (2016–2017)
Ashwin joined the Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) when CSK was suspended for two years. Despite being sidelined by injury in 2017, he contributed invaluable experience to the team. His leadership abilities were further developed while he played with greats like Steve Smith and MS Dhoni.
Leadership with Kings XI Punjab (2018–2019)
Kings XI Punjab (currently known as the Punjab Kings) selected Ashwin in 2018 and gave him the captaincy. His tactical prowess was on full display during this IPL phase. Ashwin was renowned for his audacious choices and creative field placements, and he never shied away from trying new things.
One of the most talked-about moments during this stint was the 2019 season when Ashwin famously “Mankaded” Jos Buttler. While it sparked debates across the cricketing world, it also highlighted Ashwin’s commitment to playing within the rules and his readiness to challenge conventions.
Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals (2020–Present)
In 2020, Ashwin joined the Delhi Capitals, whose bowling assault benefited from his expertise. Ashwin, who played for Shreyas Iyer and then Rishabh Pant, had a substantial contribution to Delhi’s successful campaigns, which included their run to the 2020 championship game.
Ashwin joined the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2022. He has shown maturity and inventiveness during his time with RR. In addition to his economical bowling, Ashwin has occasionally taken fans by surprise with his unconventional tactics and batting cameos. In previous IPL seasons, RR has had one of the most potent spin assaults thanks to his partnership with Yuzvendra Chahal.
Legacy in the IPL
The IPL career of Ravichandran Ashwin is evidence of his intelligence and flexibility. He has continuously remade himself, starting as a teenage CSK spinner and ending as a senior statesman with RR. Ashwin is still among the most successful Indian spinners in IPL history, having taken more than 150 wickets in the competition.
For cricket enthusiasts and future players, Ashwin’s IPL tale is about more than just taking wickets; it’s about tenacity, ingenuity, and having the guts to stay one step ahead of the competition.
