According to the 2025 year-over-year brand value update of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises conducted by Houlihan Lokey, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) surged into the position of the most valued IPL franchise, overtaking incumbent champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). RCB had an 18.5% increase from 2024's brand value of $227 million to 2025's brand value of $269 million.

The brand value web rtlto played a part in RCB's historic first IPL title in 2023, which capped a 17-year title drought for the franchise and erased the curse of being the only team to have never won the title. Leveraging its massive fan base and Virat Kohli's legacy, the franchise has been able to turn its historical stature into unprecedented commercial opportunism.

RCB Lead Brand Value Charts, PBKS Post Record Growth

Mumbai Indians continue to sit at number two, worth $242l million in brand value, a growth of 18.6%. Worst, Chennai Super Kings, the five-time winners and gold-nibbler of all time, slipped to number three because they could only manage a meager 1.7% increase. Both Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Delhi Capitals (DC) showed good health with double-digit growth, increasing their valuation.

ALSO SEE:Watch: Salman Ali Agha smirks as Afghanistan termed as second best in Asia

The big shock came by way of Punjab Kings (PBKS). PBKS showed the most overall increase of any team. From $101 million in 2024 to $141 million in 2025 is a stunning 39.6% hike. Conversely, Worth $122 million in 2024, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are also now the least valuable franchise in recent history, and we believe they didn't fare as well, even with a respectable growth percentage of 34.1%.

What does this tell us about the nature of the IPL's finances? It reveals an ecosystem that is constantly evolving. Genuine on-field success paired with the smart, off-field marketing angles remains key to each franchise's overall commercial strength. With RCB finally hoisting the odd silverware, their position atop the valuation graphs feels justified, because they truly found out that having loyal fans and winning can, in fact, translate into brand power.

IPL Team Brand Values 2025 (Houlihan Lokey Report)

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.

Vijay Shankar, an allrounder, has confirmed his departure from Tamil Nadu for the 2025-26 domestic season, with a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Now 34, Vijay is seeking more regular opportunities in all formats of the season after he was left out of Tamil Nadu's second match, against Maharashtra, in the pre-season Buchi Babu tournament despite featuring for the TNCA President's XI in match one, against Himachal Pradesh.

For Vijay, this marks the end of a 13-year association with Tamil Nadu, leading the state to multiple titles, and domestic titles - Vijay Hazare Trophy, Deodhar Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He has been an important member of the middle order since his first-class Ranji Trophy debut in December 2012, alongside B Indrajith, as a replacement for S Badrinath.

ALSO SEE: Ravichandran Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: A stat showdown after 163 IPL games

TN Faces Challenges Ahead of Domestic Season

In his Ranji career for Tamil Nadu, Vijay scored 3,142 runs in 81 innings at an average of 44.25, with 11 centuries and 16 fifties. With the ball, he took 43 wickets at an average of 53.93. His breakout season was 2014-15, when he scored 577 runs at an average of 57.70 and found his way onto India A, later being included as a wildcard for India's 2019 ODI World Cup squad. Since then, he scored his best-ever score of 150 not out against Chandigarh in the 2024-25 Ranji season.

My journey with TNCA started 23 years ago when I first got picked for under-13 state and it has been a great ride with lots of memories and learnings!

Looking back, being a part of this team and leading the TN side to 3 major trophies was a dream come true! It has shaped me and… pic.twitter.com/j2shxbVgRe

— Vijay Shankar (@vijayshankar260) August 27, 2025

Vijay also has undergone a makeover in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) with mystery spin, including carrom balls and a wrong’un, after being taught by Varun Chakravarthy. These are expected to help his new team in the upcoming season.

Vijay is the second senior player to leave Tamil Nadu recently, after TNPL captain B Aparajith moved to Kerala. Tamil Nadu has secured 18-year-old RS Ambrish as a suitable replacement. He looked promising for India Under-19s in England and will add value with both bat and ball.

Tamil Nadu is dealing with challenges going into the season, with R Sai Kishore still recovering from a hand injury and left-arm spinner S Ajith Ram not included. The team even appointed M Senthilnathan as head coach as well as former India seamer T Kumaran as bowling Coach, adding experience and energy to the Tamil Nadu setup.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary off-spinner known for his sharp cricketing mind and engaging personality, has always been a constant source of excitement both on and off the field. His clever bowling, tactical acumen, and witty presence in interviews have made him one of the most popular figures in Indian cricket.

In a surprising move, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced on Wednesday, August 27, that Ashwin would be retiring from the Indian Premier League. The news came as a shock to fans across the country, who have long admired his contributions to the franchise and the IPL as a whole.

Ashwin has been instrumental for CSK over the years, delivering crucial performances with the ball and adding valuable experience to the team. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable era in the IPL.

See Also: Kolkata Knight Riders Set to Offer Big Cash or Significant Player Trade to Delhi Capitals for KL Rahul: Reports

Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from IPL:

Ravichandran Ashwin played a pivotal role in Chennai Super Kings’ early success, helping the franchise secure their first two IPL titles in 2010 and 2011. Beyond CSK, he also contributed significantly to Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, guiding them to runner-up finishes in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

Ashwin struggled with the ball during the 2025 IPL, taking just seven wickets in nine games as Chennai Super Kings finished last. He was even left out of CSK’s final matches. Despite this, his sudden decision to retire from the league might be one the experienced Tamil Nadu cricketer could reconsider in the future.

Reports had hinted that Ashwin’s tenure with CSK could be ending ahead of the 2026 auction. He departs the IPL as the fifth-highest wicket-taker, claiming 187 wickets in 221 matches at an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Ashwin confirmed his retirement via a post on his social media, bidding farewell to the league.

He wrote, “ Special day and hence a special beginning. They say every ending will have a new start, my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today🤓. Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the @IPL and the @BCCIfor what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me🙏#cricketforlife”

Special day and hence a special beginning.

They say every ending will have a new start, my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today🤓.

Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the…

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 27, 2025

Three Reasons Ashwin’s IPL Retirement Might Be Mistaken:

With that in mind, here are three key reasons why Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL might not be the best choice. Despite his age and recent form, the veteran still has much to offer, both on the field with his skills and off the field as a mentor to younger players.

• Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 Return Fails to Impress at Chepauk

Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 did not go as smoothly as fans had hoped. Despite high expectations from the hometown crowd, the 38-year-old often struggled to make an impact, even in familiar Chepauk conditions. His performances fell short of the standards that once made him a match-winner.

Several factors contributed to Ashwin’s challenges. With Ravindra Jadeja cemented as a first-choice spinner and Noor Ahmad impressing from the very first match, Ashwin’s role as the third spinner disrupted the balance of the team. This limited opportunities and made it difficult for him to consistently influence matches.

CSK often used Ashwin in various phases of the game without a clear strategy, which affected his consistency. Despite this, other IPL franchises would value a spinner of his caliber, given his experience and proven success at the highest level.

An Indian spinner with Ashwin’s credentials allows teams to maximize their overseas players in batting, pace, and all-round roles. Had CSK released him ahead of the 2026 auction, it’s highly likely that multiple franchises would have shown interest, recognizing the advantage of adding a seasoned and effective spinner to strengthen their squad, even at 38 years of age.

• Ashwin’s True Form Better Than His IPL 2025 Performance Suggests

Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 season has been widely criticized by fans and former cricketers. However, a closer look at how he was used by CSK reveals that his role significantly affected his overall performance. The way he was deployed often worked against him, contributing to his disappointing bowling statistics.

CSK’s three-spinner strategy forced Ashwin to bowl during tough phases, particularly the powerplay. In these early overs, he was frequently targeted, conceding runs all around the ground. As a result, he struggled, finishing with an average of 112 and an economy rate of 12.44, numbers that did not reflect his true abilities as an experienced off-spinner.

When Ashwin bowled in the traditional spinner-friendly phases after the power play, his performance was far more effective. Across 22 overs, he claimed six wickets at an excellent average of 22, maintaining a tidy economy rate of 7.77, highlighting his continued skill and impact in the right conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin recently showcased his all-round abilities in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), performing strongly with both bat and ball. In 10 matches, he claimed 13 wickets at an average of 21.53, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.36, underlining his continued effectiveness as a bowler.

With the bat, the 38-year-old contributed 297 runs at an average close to 30, striking at 153.88 and hitting two half-centuries. These performances indicate that, outside of the IPL 2025 powerplay struggles, Ashwin remains in excellent form and capable of impactful contributions.

• Spinners of Ashwin’s Caliber Are Rare in the IPL

Bowling all-rounders have always been highly prized in T20 cricket due to their ability to provide balance and flexibility to a team. Their versatility makes them essential for constructing a well-rounded playing XI.

Ravichandran Ashwin possesses a rare combination of skills, excelling both with the ball and the bat. Over the years, teams have deployed him at various batting positions, from No. 3 to 8, depending on the match situation. His experience and adaptability make him a reliable contributor in multiple scenarios.

Having an Indian spinner of Ashwin’s quality also allows franchises to maximize overseas player slots. Apart from Washington Sundar, Ashwin is arguably the best off-spin all-rounder of Test-match standard in India, and many IPL teams would have eagerly sought his services.

Multiple IPL franchises need to do some reinforcement work for the upcoming season. Taking lessons from their previous campaign, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) can try to sign some fresh batters to boost up their batting firepower. Jordan Cox can be an effective long-term investment for the above-mentioned franchises. But why do CSK, SRH, or KKR need to sign the emerging English batter? 

Cox has been in superb form in the ongoing The Hundred tournament with the Oval Invincibles. He is one of the few young batters who has been able to maintain their run flow. Additionally, the England international can be used as a wicketkeeper also. 

Franchises and why they should make an investment for Jordan Cox:

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK): CSK's last season was unexpectedly poor. The five-time IPL-winning team's batting side was full of cracks, which they need to fill up if the team management wishes to regain their glory days. The late inclusions of Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis came as rays of hope, as both of the batters made strong impressions through their explosive batting performances. If they decide to cash in for Jordan Cox, then it'll be another bet on a long-term prospect. The combination of Mhatre, Brevis, and Cox can bring a lot of possibilities into the lineup. 

Read More: 327 runs in 8 innings, emerging English batter making headlines ahead of IPL 2026 auction

2. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Star-studded batting line, probably the strongest batting lineup on paper during the IPL 2025. But their on-field performance showed them the reality. Inconsistency led the team down in the points table. After scoring a brilliant hundred, Ishan Kishan's performance graph was on the decline. Other capped and uncapped talents also did not perform in a consistent manner. SRH needs someone who can provide him a steady performance, like Cox's current stint in The Hundred. The young English top-order keeper-batter can be a good backup option for Heinrich Klaasen as well. 

3. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): KKR was unable to play as a team in IPL 2025, and they failed to protect their title. They have to recruit some fresh, young talents to replace reputed but out-of-form experienced players from their first XI. Apart from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Rinku Singh, KKR's batting combination lacked upcoming talents and X-factor. Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Quinton De Kock are undoubtedly highly experienced candidates, but they are already well past their prime. The upcoming mini auction for IPL 2026 can be a crucial moment for Knight Riders to reshuffle their team. 

South African batting prodigy Dewald Brevis eyes another significant milestone ahead of South Africa's upcoming ODI series starting on August 19. The 22-year-old Protea youngster has been on a roll in the ongoing Australia tour. There are tell-tale signs to conclude that the cricketer has come a long way. Brevis put on a show in the second T20I by smashing his career-best 125 to power South Africa to a thumping series-levelling win. He subsequently followed it up with a brilliant half-century in the decider, which unfortunately came in a losing cause.

His exploits with the bat didn't go unnoticed. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions, were keeping a very close eye on Brevis's recent run in Australia. Due to the non-availability of a few players, Brevis was featured as a replacement player for CSK at the fag end of the last season. Needless to say, Brevis had a promising run with the Yellow Brigade in the last season, averaging nearly 40 with two half-century scores to his name. Undoubtedly, CSK wanted to sign him for the entirety of the IPL 2026 season, a move which sparked public outrage as the fans accused CSK of violating the auction rules. 

While the future for the young batting star looks bright, there seems to be another milestone waiting for him in white-ball cricket. For the first time in his professional international career, Brevis could be in with a chance to feature in the three-match ODI series against Australia.  

See also: South Africa tour of Australia 2025: Schedule, squads, venues & how to watch

ODI debut on the cards for Brevis

According to the latest reports, Brevis could be all set to make his ODI debut for South Africa on Tuesday. The Proteas are scheduled to play the first ODI of the three-match series against Australia on August 19 in Cairns. Speculations of his maiden ODI appearance have been rife. Brevis has already made appearances for South Africa in the T20Is and Tests. While most of his appearances have come in the shortest format, Brevis also managed to make his Test debut against Zimbabwe, very recently in June. The ODI format is the only format that has been left untouched till now. 

All of that could change when the first ODI game gets underway later today. South Africa, in the quest for bringing about the right balance between youth and experience are actively on the lookout for a young all-format specialist batter, who can be an adaptable assest across all conditions. Brevis roared with the bat in the recently concluded T20I series, finishing as the highest run getter. South Africa would be hoping that he fires with the bat again to take South Africa to a rare ODI series win in Australia. 

Brevis is far too familiar with the 50-over format. In List-A cricket, the 22-year-old batting icon has amassed 1065 runs in 24 innings at a remarkable average of 48.40. In addition, the youngster has also slammed four centuries and seven half-centuries, making him an obvious force to reckon with in the domestic 50-over circuit. 

Pure joy for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as two of their foreign talents are doing exceptionally well during their international duties. While most talks are running around young batter Dewald Brevis, Australian seamer Nathan Ellis also is riding high.

 The three-match T20I series between Australia and South Africa turned out to be more intense when they met for the series decider. After scoring a record-breaking century, Brevis again went berserk to score 53 off 26 for South Africa. On the other hand, Nathan Ellis took 3 wickets for Australia. In fact, Ellis is the man who helped Australia to get rid of the dangerous Brevis. In his 4-over spell, the pace bowler got the wickets of Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Brevis, and Senuran Muthusamy.

CSK, from their official social media account, shared a special post to mark Nathan's stunning form with the ball. In their social media post, CSK wrote as a caption, "Ellis treated us to a 3⃣RIPLE delight!" From the beginning of 2025, the 30-year-old has been bowling with consistency for the Australia cricket team.

Read More: After smashing 488 runs in TNPL 2025, another keeper-batter ready for IPL 2026

Nathan Ellis emerged as one of the major wicket-taking bowlers for Australia 

Before the ongoing South Africa series, Ellis looked promising against the West Indies in back-to-back 5 matches. Nathan Ellis slowly but surely improves his bowling skills according to international standards. The medium-pace bowler has become one of the most lethal bowlers in death overs.

For Australia, Ellis has recently picked up multiple wickets during the closing moments of matches. He played only 1 match for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 and got a wicket as well.

Ellis treated us to a 3⃣RIPLE delight! 🦁✨#WhistlePodu #AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/xcDVtvpjC8

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 16, 2025

Delhi Capitals (DC) star Sameer Rizvi marked Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon MS Dhoni as one of the greatest T20 finishers, among a few other greats of the format. Rizvi did a challenging blindfold task of ranking six legends including MS Dhoni in the format as finishers.

Without any hesitation, the young batter put Dhoni right on the top of the list. Other than the former India skipper, de Villiers, Michael Hussey, Jos Buttler, Kieron Pollard, and Michael Bevan were the contenders. After marking Dhoni as the best finisher of T20, Rizvi placed Pollard, Villiers, Hussey, Buttler, and Bevan in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th positions, respectively.

Due to the Indian Premier League (IPL), like many emerging cricketers, Sameer Rizvi also got a chance to share a dressing room with some of the big names of the game. CSK was Rizvi's first IPL team in his career. During the IPL 2024, he played a few matches for the multi-time IPL-winning franchise. Then, he got the chance to share some moments with Dhoni. Moments with the legendary keeper-batter were priceless for the Meerut-born cricketer. Sharing a conversation with the former India skipper, Rizvi said that Dhoni advised him to keep his nerves cool under pressure situations.

Read More: ‘Was Gurjapneet's injury replacement the best replacement in IPL history?’- Former Indian cricketer reacts to CSK star’s explosive display in AUS vs SA 2025 T20Is

Dhoni supported Rizvi off the field 

"He has always supported me off the field, especially on the mental side. He always tells us to stay calm in high-pressure situations and take deep breaths for 5–6 seconds, which will help us relax and think in a better way," Rizvi said. 

The emerging cricketer played 8 matches for CSK in IPL 2025, scoring only 51 runs at an average of 12.75. Ahead of the mega auction, CSK did not retain him, and Rizvi joined Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025, where he scored 121 runs at an average of over 40 and a strike rate of 153.16 in 5 matches. 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has stirred controversy with a striking revelation about the franchise’s signing of young South African batter Dewald Brevis during the IPL 2025 season. Brevis was roped in midway through the tournament as an injury replacement for Gurjapneet Singh, with CSK securing his services for INR 2.2 crore. The move was seen as a calculated gamble to bolster the squad, as Brevis was already a sought-after T20 talent, admired for his explosive batting and ability to change the course of a match in a short span.

Ashwin claimed that Brevis had been in discussions with multiple IPL franchises before eventually deciding to join CSK because they offered him a higher payment than others. The disclosure quickly caught the attention of fans and cricket analysts on social media, with reactions sharply divided. While some appreciated Ashwin’s candor, others criticized him for revealing details they believe should remain confidential between the player and the team management. The statement has since fueled debates over transparency and confidentiality in IPL player contracts.

See Also: Major trade update from Sanju Samson ahead of IPL 2026

“Is he the next AB or the first DB? Brevis had a great time with CSK last year. I came to understand two or three other teams also spoke with him but they missed picking because of having to pay extra money. While picking up a player mid-season, there will be discussions with the player’s agent to negotiate on an ‘X’ amount apart from the base price to acquire his services. CSK were willing to pay the extra money due to which he (Brevis) came into the franchise,” Ashwin said speaking  on his YouTube channel with former RCB analyst Prasanna Agoram.

Watch the interview here;

I won't know seriously he speaking this ???

Ash " Brevis asked much more money from csk to join , Csk too gived it that's he joined in csk "

Where is professionalism he speaking about team what exchanged 🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/XaHgR2Buyv

— S@SSY💛 (@bharathraj1412) August 13, 2025

Dewald Brevis was a revelation for CSK in IPL 2025

Although Dewald Brevis had prior IPL experience with Mumbai Indians in 2022 and 2024, he truly came into his own after joining Chennai Super Kings in 2025. While his average with MI hovered around 23, it jumped to an impressive 37.50 in his debut season with CSK. Playing six matches, the 22-year-old smashed 225 runs at a strike rate of 180, including two fifties, excelling in the finisher’s role. His performances solved CSK’s lower-order crisis from the previous season and showcased his ability to close out games with explosive batting under pressure.

Since IPL 2025, Brevis has been in remarkable form across formats. He scored 166 runs in the Vitality T20 Blast at a strike rate of 180.43, averaging 33.2. He then made his Test debut for South Africa, scoring a fifty, followed by topping the run charts in a T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe and New Zealand with 133 runs at a strike rate of 187.31. Most recently, he became the youngest South African to hit a T20I century against Australia. With the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaching, his hot streak makes him a prime retention target for CSK.

Former India international Ravichandran Ashwin shared a shocking incident related to a scam. Ashwin, through his YouTube channel, revealed that he received a WhatsApp message from a fake 'Devon Conway.' The scammer who messaged Ashwin claimed to be his Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate Devon Conway. 

After a few formal words, the person asked went straight into the business, asking Ashwin to share Virat Kohli's contact number. Then, he asked for the numbers of Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni. By then, Ashwin started to see red flags and went into CSK's group to check Conway's actual WhatsApp number. Ashwin took only a few minutes to realize that on the other side of the phone, it was a scammer who tried to collect some high-profile contacts. The incident happened after IPL 2025. 

"After the IPL got over, one guy messaged me, claiming to be Devon Conway, 'Hi buddy, how are you?' and I also responded, ‘We'll stay in touch. You're playing in MLC; I'll watch the games.' He then asked, 'I've lost Virat Kohli's number; can you share it?' I thought, why is he asking for Virat's number? I thought I should ask him, but I didn't want Devon Conway to misunderstand. Then I picked Virat Kohli's card and gave him a different number," Ashwin said.

Read More: Baby AB in ABD mode' - Fans react as Dewald Brevis becomes youngest South African to score century in T20I

"Once I shared it, he replied, 'I've lost a few more numbers.' I asked whose numbers, and he responded, 'Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni.' I got suspicious and thought somebody was playing a prank." 

Ashwin used his grey matter 

Now, Ashwin played his card. He asked a tricky question to the scammer. 'I gave you a bat this year; how's that bat?' Ashwin asked. The scammer did not realize it was a trap and fell for it. Now, the former India cricketer had a clear picture in front of him, a pure case of scam. 

I then asked him a question, 'I gave you a bat this year; how's that bat?' He said the bat is amazing, but I hadn't even given him any. He lied, and I blocked him instantly. The guy took a chance. I went back to the CSK group and checked Devon Conway's number, and it was not the same. At least I had the smarts to send the duplicate card of Virat. It was his WhatsApp number in Australia. Thank goodness, because he was asking for everybody's numbers,” Ashwin added.