Ravichandran Ashwin admits he always wanted to play for RCB – Ravichandran Ashwin Admits Desire to Play for RCB or RR Over CSK

In a candid admission that has undoubtedly sent ripples through the passionate fan bases of the Indian Premier League (IPL), veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently opened up about his team preferences during the IPL 2025 mega-auction. Despite his significant history and success with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Ashwin revealed he would have been “more than happy” if franchises like the Rajasthan Royals (RR) or the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had secured his services instead.

Ashwin’s Surprising Revelation Amidst Fierce Rivalry

The Chennai Super Kings stand as one of the most decorated franchises in IPL history, boasting a formidable legacy and a fiercely loyal fan following. Their supporters are renowned for their passionate allegiance, often taking immense pride in the team’s numerous triumphs and frequently engaging in spirited rivalries, most notably with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This rivalry has often seen CSK fans sarcastically claim that no player would ever willingly choose to be part of the RCB squad over their beloved Super Kings. Ashwin’s recent comments directly challenge this widely held perception, offering a refreshing and honest perspective from a player who has experienced the league from multiple vantage points.

The former CSK stalwart explicitly stated his affection for two specific franchises, should he have found himself not returning to Chennai ahead of the IPL 2025 mega-auction. He named the Rajasthan Royals as one of his preferred destinations, expressing genuine happiness at the prospect of a reunion with the Men in Pink. Ashwin’s tenure with the Royals was notably successful, where he formed a potent spin partnership with Yuzvendra Chahal. During his time with RR, he not only excelled with the ball, picking up crucial wickets, but also contributed significantly with the bat, showcasing his all-round capabilities and clearly enjoying his stint.

Why RCB and RR Held Appeal for Ashwin

Elaborating on his preferences, Ashwin candidly 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.” He continued to include RCB in his list, adding, “If they both didn’t pick me up and RCB did, then too I would have been happy.” This sentiment, coming from a player deeply associated with CSK, is particularly noteworthy given the long-standing rivalry. Ashwin attributed his fondness for these teams to specific reasons:

• Strong Bowling Performances: He recalled having delivered “some good bowling” performances in those stadiums, suggesting a comfort and success rate that resonated with him.
• Great Memories and Encouragement: The veteran spinner also highlighted the “great memories” and the “great encouragement from the crowds in those stadiums,” indicating a connection with the atmosphere and fan support in Jaipur and Bengaluru.

These reasons shed light on a player’s perspective that extends beyond mere team loyalty, encompassing personal performance and the positive experience of playing in certain environments. Ashwin’s revelation thus directly counters the often-repeated assertion by some CSK fans that players are disinclined to join RCB, adding a layer of nuance to the intense fan debates that characterize the IPL.

A Look at Ashwin’s Illustrious IPL Career

Ravichandran Ashwin has carved out an illustrious career in the Indian Premier League, featuring for a remarkable five different franchises since his debut in 2009. While his formative and most celebrated years were undoubtedly with the Chennai Super Kings, where he won two IPL titles in 2010 and 2011, he also left his mark on other teams. His journey included stints with the Rising Pune Super Giants, the Punjab Kings, the Delhi Capitals, and the Rajasthan Royals. Each chapter of his IPL career saw him evolve as a bowler and a strategic thinker, contributing significantly to every squad he represented.

Over a career spanning from 2009 to his eventual retirement at the end of the 2025 season, which concluded with a disappointing run for CSK, Ashwin participated in an impressive 221 IPL matches. In these encounters, he amassed a remarkable tally of 187 wickets, establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent and impactful spinners. Beyond his wicket-taking prowess, Ashwin also played in four IPL finals – two with the Super Kings, where he clinched his two titles, and two more with the Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, respectively. His journey through various teams underscores his adaptability and sustained relevance in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket. His recent comments therefore provide a unique insight into the mindset of a seasoned professional navigating the complexities of player auctions and team affiliations in a league driven by both performance and passion.