Title: Ashwin is like ‘Let me get through these four overs’: Srikkanth
Ravichandran Ashwin, the experienced all-rounder of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has been a vital cog in the team’s success in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. However, his recent performance has come under scrutiny, especially after he bowled four overs without taking a single wicket in their match against Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025.
Former India batter Kris Srikkanth, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, expressed his disappointment with Ashwin’s lack of aggression while bowling in the recent match. Speaking to the media, Srikkanth said, “What is Ashwin doing? He has turned all defensive. He’s not looking to take wickets. He is like, ‘Let me get through these four overs’. He never went for wicket-taking. Just bowling safe.”
Srikkanth’s words have sparked a debate about Ashwin’s role in the CSK team, particularly his approach to bowling. While some might argue that Ashwin’s defensive strategy is a necessary evil to contain the opposition, others might believe that he should be more proactive and look to take wickets.
Ashwin’s recent performance has been a subject of discussion among cricket enthusiasts. In the match against MI, he bowled four overs, conceding 25 runs without taking a single wicket. His economy rate of 6.25 was decent but not spectacular, considering the context of the game. CSK was looking to restrict MI’s scoring rate, but Ashwin’s lack of wicket-taking ability raised eyebrows.
Srikkanth’s criticism is not without merit. Ashwin has been known for his ability to bowl tight overs and contain the opposition. However, in recent times, he has not been able to make a significant impact with the ball. His wicket-taking ability has diminished, and he has become more of a defensive bowler.
Ashwin’s lack of aggression has been a topic of discussion among fans and experts alike. Some have argued that he has become too predictable and is not challenging the batsmen enough. His lack of variation and inability to bowl yorkers have made him an easier target for batsmen.
On the other hand, Ashwin’s defensive strategy has its merits. He has been an excellent bowler in the Powerplay overs, and his ability to contain the opposition has been crucial in many matches. His experience and guile have been valuable assets for the CSK team.
However, the debate about Ashwin’s role in the CSK team is not new. He has been a polarizing figure in the cricket world, with some critics questioning his ability to adapt to different situations. Ashwin has been accused of being too defensive and not taking enough risks with the ball.
Ashwin’s response to Srikkanth’s criticism has been predictable. He has emphasized the importance of containing the opposition and not taking unnecessary risks. He has also pointed out that his role in the team is to support the other bowlers and not to be a wicket-taking specialist.
Ashwin’s approach to bowling has been shaped by his experience and the demands of the game. As a bowler, he has learned to adapt to different situations and opponents. His defensive strategy has been successful in many matches, and he has been an integral part of the CSK team’s success.
However, Srikkanth’s criticism highlights the need for Ashwin to revisit his approach to bowling. As a seasoned bowler, Ashwin has the ability to adapt and evolve. He needs to find a balance between containing the opposition and taking wickets.
Ashwin’s performance will be closely watched in the upcoming matches. If he is unable to adapt and find a balance between defense and attack, he may find himself on the sidelines. On the other hand, if he is able to find a way to take wickets and support the other bowlers, he will remain a vital cog in the CSK team.
In conclusion, Srikkanth’s criticism of Ashwin has sparked a debate about the bowler’s role in the CSK team. While Ashwin’s defensive strategy has its merits, he needs to find a balance between containing the opposition and taking wickets. Ashwin’s response to Srikkanth’s criticism has been predictable, but he needs to adapt and evolve to remain an effective bowler in the IPL.
