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

A Surprising Admission from a Chennai Icon

In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League, loyalties are often fierce, and fan bases are notoriously tribal. For years, the rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been one of the most heated narratives in Indian cricket. A common trope among the Chennai faithful has been the boastful claim that no player with a legacy at CSK would ever consider moving to Bengaluru. However, legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has recently shattered that myth with a remarkably honest confession.

As the IPL 2025 mega-auction cycle concluded, Ashwin reflected on his career trajectory. While his name is synonymous with the yellow jersey of Chennai, the veteran admitted that he had open doors in his mind for other franchises, specifically naming the Rajasthan Royals and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru as his preferred destinations had he not been reunited with his home franchise.

Breaking the Tribalism Narrative

The rivalry between CSK and RCB fans often boils down to a clash of cultures and philosophies. CSK fans, buoyed by the franchise’s consistent success and tactical brilliance, have frequently used the ‘no one wants to play for RCB’ line as a badge of honor. By stating his openness to playing for the Bengaluru side, Ashwin has provided a refreshing, objective take that highlights the professional respect players hold for different setups, regardless of fan-driven narratives.

Ashwin noted, “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.” His reasoning is rooted in the professional environment and the genuine appreciation he feels for the atmospheres created at those venues.

Why RCB and Rajasthan?

For a player of Ashwin’s stature, the decision to play for a team is rarely just about the contract; it is about the environment and the connection with the home crowd. During his stint with the Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin flourished, pairing effectively with Yuzvendra Chahal and contributing significantly with both ball and bat. He expressed that he enjoyed his time with the ‘Men in Pink’ and appreciated the support he received.

Regarding RCB, Ashwin cited the encouragement he has consistently received from the crowds in Bengaluru. The electrifying atmosphere at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is well-known across the cricketing world, and for a seasoned campaigner like Ashwin, the prospect of feeding off that energy was clearly a motivating factor. He confirmed, “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.”

A Decorated IPL Journey

Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is a testament to longevity and adaptability in the T20 format. Having featured for five different franchises—CSK, Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals—he has seen the IPL evolve from its nascent stages into a global sporting phenomenon. Over the course of 221 matches between his debut in 2009 and his retirement in 2025, Ashwin secured 187 wickets, cementing his status as one of the most prolific spinners in league history.

While his most iconic moments occurred in Chennai, where he helped secure titles in 2010 and 2011, his versatility allowed him to reach finals with Delhi and Rajasthan as well. His professional journey reflects a player who values the craft of bowling above the limitations of franchise loyalty.

Looking Back at the Legacy

Ashwin’s comments serve as a reminder that while fans drive the passion of the game, the players often view the IPL through a wider lens of professional growth and mutual respect. By acknowledging the appeal of RCB and Rajasthan, Ashwin has stepped outside the confined box of franchise bias. He remains a legend of the game, not just for his contributions to the Chennai Super Kings, but for his willingness to appreciate the beauty and spirit of other cricketing setups across the country.

As the curtains close on a distinguished career, his words will likely remain a talking point for fans and analysts alike, serving as a reminder that in the world of cricket, respect transcends team colors.