Ravichandran Ashwin vs Rashid Khan: Stats comparison after 136 IPL games

The Indian Premier League will miss one of its greatest performers from the 2026 edition onwards as Ravichandran Ashwin officially confirmed his retirement on Wednesday, August 27. His departure marks the end of a memorable chapter for one of the tournament’s most successful spinners.

Ashwin, now 38, has been a key part of the IPL since making his debut in the league’s second season back in 2009. Over the years, he built a reputation as a dependable match-winner with his variations and sharp cricketing mind, making him a valuable asset for every franchise he represented.

His most iconic contributions came with the Chennai Super Kings, where he played a crucial role in guiding the team to their maiden IPL trophies in 2010 and 2011. Playing under MS Dhoni’s leadership, Ashwin’s consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure games cemented his place as one of the competition’s true legends.

See Also: Sri Lanka announce 16 member squad for Asia Cup 2025

R Ashwin vs Rashid Khan: Stat Comparison After 136 Appearances:

Ravichandran Ashwin ended his IPL journey as the fifth-leading wicket-taker, securing 187 wickets in 221 games while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.20. While his consistency dipped in recent years, fans continue to cherish his exceptional spells from the early phase of his career, especially during the first decade.

Ashwin began his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings (2009–2015), playing a vital role under MS Dhoni. He moved to Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 but missed the 2017 season due to injury. In 2018 and 2019, he took charge as captain of Punjab Kings, maintaining his reputation as a dependable performer.

Rashid Khan, the Afghan spin sensation, has carved his own legacy in the IPL with a very different style compared to Ashwin. Since making his debut for SunRisers Hyderabad in 2017, the 26-year-old has been a consistent match-winner across nine seasons.

One of his biggest achievements came in 2022, when he played a vital role in guiding Gujarat Titans to a remarkable title in their debut season. With Ashwin stepping away, fans have naturally started drawing comparisons between the two modern-day spin greats.

Let’s examine Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL stats after 136 matches and compare them with Rashid Khan’s numbers at the same stage, providing insight into how both spinners performed and matched up in their respective careers.

• Complete Bowling Statistics Overview:

Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan featured for more than one franchise during their first 136 IPL appearances. Ashwin secured two IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings in his early seasons, whereas Rashid achieved his first championship with Gujarat Titans during his sixth campaign. Their journeys highlight different paths to success, but both spinners made their mark in the league.

When comparing their bowling figures after 136 matches, Rashid enjoys a clear edge. The Afghan leg-spinner claimed 158 wickets in that span, whereas Ashwin managed 122. Rashid also secured two four-wicket hauls during this period, while Ashwin registered one, underlining Rashid’s superior wicket-taking ability across these games.

• Bowling Impact Statistics Comparison:

In T20 cricket, raw numbers often matter less than performances that directly influence victories. Both Rashid Khan and Ravichandran Ashwin have delivered numerous match-winning spells throughout their IPL careers, proving their ability to turn games with their bowling. Their impact goes beyond wickets, affecting team strategy and morale during crucial moments.

When comparing their impact statistics—average, economy, and contributions in winning games—Ashwin edges out Rashid in most areas. While Rashid holds a slightly better overall bowling average after 136 IPL matches, Ashwin demonstrates superior economy and a greater influence on matches his team wins. 

These numbers highlight how the veteran Indian spinner consistently contributed to his team’s success, often more effectively than his Afghan counterpart.

• Which spinner excelled in high-pressure IPL matches?

Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan have thrived in IPL playoffs during their first 136 matches. Their consistency over the seasons ensured their respective teams regularly finished in the top half of the table, making them vital assets in high-pressure situations. Performing well in the big matches is a true test of a player’s temperament and skill.

Focusing on the IPL playoffs and finals, both spinners delivered key performances for their franchises. Their ability to take crucial wickets and maintain control with the ball often swung tight games in their teams’ favor.

Looking at the numbers after 136 games, the comparison is incredibly close. Rashid edges ahead slightly in average and economy, while both have comparable wicket tallies and match appearances, showing just how evenly matched they are in big-match scenarios.

• Additional contributions with the bat from lower-order players:

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan added significant value to their teams in the IPL with their contributions in the lower order. Ashwin relied on orthodox strokes to add stability and contribute useful runs, whereas Rashid stood out with his innovative, unpredictable shot-making that frequently caught bowlers off guard and shifted momentum.

When comparing their batting after 136 IPL matches, Rashid slightly edges out Ashwin. The Afghan spinner holds a marginally better batting average and a notably higher strike rate, making him more explosive and effective in finishing games, whereas Ashwin’s contributions were steady but less impactful in terms of rapid scoring.

The comparison between Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan after 136 IPL matches is incredibly close. Both matched each other in overall and impact stats, but Rashid slightly outshines Ashwin in knockout-stage performances and lower-order batting contributions. Their rivalry highlights how both spinners were equally crucial, yet excelled in different facets of the game.