Ravichandran Ashwin admits he always wanted to play for RCB – Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Surprise Affinity for Royal Challengers Bengaluru
A Surprising Admission from a Cricket Legend
The landscape of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is often defined by fierce fan rivalries, with none perhaps as intense as the clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) supporters. For years, the narrative from the CSK faithful has remained steadfast: no player who has donned the ‘Yellow’ jersey would ever desire to wear the colors of Bengaluru. However, legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has recently shattered this myth with a remarkably candid admission.
Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, which marked the final chapter in the illustrious career of one of India’s greatest off-spinners, Ashwin opened up about the IPL 2025 mega-auction. While he ultimately returned to the Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin revealed that his professional outlook was far broader than the rigid tribalism often displayed by fans.
Beyond the Yellow Jersey: Ashwin’s Perspective
Ashwin, who has showcased his craft across five different franchises throughout his 221-match career, stated clearly that he would have been genuinely pleased to represent either the Rajasthan Royals or the Royal Challengers Bengaluru had they secured his services during the auction process.
“If I want to join any other team than CSK, then it’s RR or RCB,” Ashwin noted. “Had Rajasthan Royals 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.”
This statement serves as a poignant reminder that for the athletes themselves, the game is about professional respect, tactical fit, and the appreciation of the crowd, rather than the territorial boundaries created by supporters.
Understanding the Connection
Why would a legendary CSK icon express such an open desire to play for the opposition? Ashwin pointed to two fundamental factors: the quality of his own performances for those teams and the reception he received from the passionate crowds in those cities. During his tenure with the Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin was not only a clinical wicket-taker but also a vital contributor with the bat, often partnering with Yuzvendra Chahal to form a formidable spin duo. The support he felt in those stadiums left a lasting impression on the veteran.
A Career Defined by Versatility
Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey in the IPL is a testament to his adaptability. Over his career, which spanned from 2009 to 2025, he accumulated an impressive 187 wickets. While he is most synonymous with the two IPL titles he secured with Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011, his impact extended well beyond Chennai. He contributed significantly to the Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and the Rajasthan Royals.
Throughout his time in the league, Ashwin appeared in four IPL finals—two with the Super Kings and two split between his time at the Delhi Capitals and the Rajasthan Royals. This breadth of experience allowed him to cultivate a deep appreciation for the unique culture surrounding each franchise.
Reframing the Rivalry
The CSK fan base is legendary for its loyalty and protective nature, often pushing the idea that a player’s tenure with the franchise is a lifelong vow of exclusivity. By publicly stating that he would have welcomed a move to RCB, Ashwin has offered a refreshing dose of reality. It highlights that even the most iconic players can respect the legacy of a club like Bengaluru, regardless of the historical tension between the two franchises.
As the curtains close on his IPL career, Ashwin’s legacy remains secure—not just as a master of spin, but as a sportsman who understands that the beauty of the game lies in its ability to bring players and fans together, even across the deepest of rivalries. His words serve as a bridge between the intense passion of the stands and the professional camaraderie of the field, reminding us all that cricket, at its core, is a game of mutual respect.
