Ravichandran Ashwin admits he always wanted to play for RCB – Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Surprise Desire to Play for RCB

A Surprising Admission from a Cricket Legend

In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), fan loyalty often manifests as intense tribalism. Nowhere is this more evident than in the storied rivalry between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). For years, a prevailing narrative among the CSK faithful has been the confident, often sarcastic assertion that no player with a history in Chennai would ever desire to wear the RCB jersey. However, a recent revelation from one of the game’s greatest spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin, has shattered that myth.

Ashwin, whose career has spanned across five different IPL franchises, recently provided an honest insight into his mindset leading up to the 2025 mega-auction. While his return to the Chennai Super Kings was celebrated by many, the veteran admitted that his career path could have easily taken a different turn, and he would have embraced it with open arms.

Breaking the Fan Narratives

The rivalry between CSK and RCB is one of the most passionate in cricket. CSK fans have long taken immense pride in their team’s historic success, often using that legacy to mock the RCB squad. A common refrain from the Chennai stands is that players consider the ‘Yellow Army’ to be the pinnacle of their careers, implying that the lure of Bengaluru is non-existent for those who have tasted success in Chennai. Ashwin’s recent comments have directly challenged this perspective, proving that professional cricketers view the game through a broader lens of respect and opportunity.

Ashwin stated clearly, “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.”

Why RCB and RR Held Appeal

The veteran spinner’s reasoning is rooted in deep respect for the environments and the fan support found within those franchises. Ashwin explained that his appreciation for the Rajasthan Royals and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru is not arbitrary. “It is due to two reasons: I have done some good bowling, and I have some great memories here, and I get some great encouragement from the crowds in those stadiums,” he noted.

During his stint with the Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin was a vital cog in the machine, often pairing with Yuzvendra Chahal to dismantle batting lineups. His contribution wasn’t just with the ball; he was frequently called upon to play crucial cameos with the bat, proving his value as a true all-rounder. The camaraderie he experienced with the ‘Men in Pink’ left a lasting impression on him, making them a preferred destination even above the emotional homecoming to Chennai.

A Decorated Career in Numbers

Ravichandran Ashwin’s legacy in the IPL is undeniable. Over a career that spanned from his 2009 debut to his final season in 2025, he featured in 221 matches. His consistency saw him claim 187 wickets, establishing him as one of the most economical and intelligent bowlers in the tournament’s history.

• Total IPL Matches: 221
• Total Wickets: 187
• Key Franchises Represented: Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals
• Career Titles: 2 (CSK – 2010, 2011)

While his most iconic moments were undoubtedly carved in the yellow of Chennai, his journey through various teams added layers of versatility to his game. Whether playing for Delhi Capitals or the Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin showcased an adaptability that is rare at the highest level of the sport. His ability to perform on the biggest stages—having played in two IPL finals for Chennai and two more for Delhi and Rajasthan—highlights a career defined by high-pressure performance.

Looking Back at the 2025 Mega-Auction

The 2025 mega-auction was a period of intense speculation for every player involved. For Ashwin, it was a moment of reflection. While the Chennai Super Kings eventually secured his services, the veteran was mentally prepared for a new challenge in either Bengaluru or Jaipur. By openly acknowledging his willingness to join RCB, Ashwin has offered a refreshing dose of reality to the cricket community. It serves as a reminder that for professional athletes, the opportunity to contribute to a franchise, the warmth of the crowd, and the ability to compete at a high level often outweigh the tribal rivalries constructed by the fanbase.

As Ashwin looks back on his illustrious career, his legacy is not just one of wickets and wins, but of a professional who remained open to the evolution of the game, regardless of the team colors he wore. His admission serves as a poignant footnote to a legendary career that has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.