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.

South Africa suffered a serious setback on the eve of their three-match one-day international (ODI) series against Australia as pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada was ruled out of the rubber due to inflammation of his right ankle.

The 30-year-old underwent a scan on Monday (August 18), which confirmed the seriousness of the injury. Cricket South Africa announced that Rabada would stay in Australia to start rehabilitation with the team's medical team. "Proteas Men's fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia due to inflammation of his right ankle," CSA said in a statement.

Kwena Maphaka Called Up

In light of Rabada's absence, left-arm quick Kwena Maphaka, 19, has been called up into the squad. The young bowler was the standout bowler for South Africa in a T20I series they recently played, and finished the series as the leading wicket-taker, while now he's getting his opportunity in the 50-over format. 

Already missing Marco Jansen, who is recovering from surgery on his left thumb, the South African pace unit will be led by Lungi Ngidi, backed up by Nandre Burger and Maphaka, along with all-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Corbin Bosch for additional seam options, with a spin unit inclusive of Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, and Prenelan Subrayen offering plenty of variety.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] Indian Army soldiers play cricket with locals in south Kashmir as video goes viral

First ODI in Cairns

The series is being played at Cazaly's Stadium in Cairns, and South Africa have Ngidi, Burger, and Mulder as their seam brigade, along with Subrayen, who made his ODI debut, with Maharaj leading the spin attack.

Australia is led by Mitchell Marsh, standing in as captain, who won the toss and bowled first, saying that the surface looked dry. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said he would have done the same if he had won the toss.

Series Outlook

Australia comes into the ODI leg with confidence after winning the T20I series 2-1. South Africa, however, missing Rabada and Jansen puts extra pressure on the younger bowlers, but at least the second and third ODIs will both be played in Mackay at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, on 22 and 24 August.

There is a World Cup coming, and both teams can use the series as an opportunity to look at depth and combinations, though for the Proteas, it will depend on how well their emerging attack performs without their senior quicks.

Gujarat Titans' promising journey in the IPL 2025 was put to an end by the Mumbai Indians during the grand Eliminator clash on Friday. Former MI captain Rohit Sharma played a blinder of an innings to blow GT away in this do-or-die contest. His whirlwind knock of 81 off 50 powered MI to a match-winning total as GT were tasked with chasing a mammoth target of 229 to stay in the hunt for the second Qualifier. 

See also: Watch: Former RCB player AB de Villiers playing wheelchair cricket in Mumbai

Despite giving away such a massive score, GT started off in a resilient fashion, blazing their way to 100 for the loss of two wickets within 9.2 overs. Sai Sudharsan played a fighting knock of 80 off 49, and while he was there, GT's hopes of making it to the next stage were also alive. Sadly, he succumbed against the run of play due to intense scoreboard pressure, and a lack of contributions from the middle-lower order meant that GT fell short by a small margin of 20 runs.

While the MI supporters cherished the win, it was a moment of anguish for the GT fans and the support staff. To see their team crumble in such a fashion triggered a teary-eyed reaction from the GT fanbase, who at the time were present in the stadium in sizeable numbers. The defeat was emotionally charged for the Gujarat Titans. Shubman Gill's sister, Shahneel, and coach Ashish Nehra's son were seen in tears in the stands, reflecting the personal stakes involved in high-profile cricket matches.

Probably the most affected of them all was Ashish Nehra's son, who simply couldn't digest the defeat of his father's side. While son his feet, the young soul was seen crying relentlessly while clapping simultaneously.

Watch the video:

𝙈𝙄-𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙮 effort on a 𝙈𝙄-𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙮 occasion 💙@mipaltan seal the #Eliminator with a collective team performance ✌

Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/R4RTzjQNeP#TATAIPL | #GTvMI | #TheLastMile pic.twitter.com/cJzBLVs8uM

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 30, 2025

GT's season has officially come to a close. They missed a spot in the final this time, but the 2022 champions have displayed extraordinary brilliance this season. As the dust settles on the 2025 season, GT would hope that they take positive takeaways and make necessary amends to become a more potent side ahead of the 2026 season. 

In a development that has delighted and left cricket enthusiasts buzzing, cricket legend and former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh was seen in the presence of Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill in Chandigarh just a few days ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs. The event has left everyone speculating whether the 2011 World Cup champion is becoming a coaching or mentor figure at the Gujarat franchise as they prepare for the nail-biting games ahead.

On social media, the Gujarat Titans, who have already earned a spot in the playoffs, posted a picture of Shubman Gill and Yuvraj Singh strolling together with the message, "Ki haal chaal, #TitansFAM?" The two were seen arriving at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport together on Monday night. Fans were left heartbroken not to have been able to meet homegrown sensation Gill, having made the journey to welcome him.

In a turn of events, pre-season news linked Yuvraj Singh with a possible coaching role at the Titans, replacing Ashish Nehra as head coach. While Nehra retained his place, Yuvraj's close link with both Nehra and Gill, especially his mentorship of Shubman during the COVID-19 lockdown, left space for potential future collaboration.

Now 43, Yuvraj has an armful of experience and a proven record of big-match match-winning knocks. Even if he goes to the Titans' camp, unofficially as an advisor, it would be a confidence booster for the players. Yuvraj has won almost all the top cricketing awards from the 2007 World Cup T20 and 2011 World Cup ODI to two IPL trophies, and his very presence is regarded as a lucky omen.

ALSO SEE: WATCH: Rohit Sharma imitates Shreyas Iyer after PBKS vs MI match in IPL 2025

Yuvraj Singh with Shubman Gill. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/N5kEuoGDlA

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 27, 2025

Playoff-Bound Gujarat Titans Under the Scanner with Yuvraj Singh Joining the Fray at Mullanpur Camp

The 2022 IPL champion Gujarat Titans have been unstoppable so far in the 2025 season. They've won nine games out of their 14 league matches but made their playoff entry after consecutive losses to Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings. Depending on the turn of the RCB vs LSG game, GT will play the Qualifier 1 or the Eliminator at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, and everything is set there to host the two crucial playoff games in a spanking-new full-house setting.

As GT gets ready for its last preparations, the stadium is humming with excitement. On Tuesday night between 6 and 9 PM, the team will practise at Mullanpur under the floodlights. The city should soon see the arrival of other playoff contenders, including the Royal Challengers Bangalore, the Mumbai Indians, and the Punjab Kings. With the playoff war heating up, everyone's attention will be focused on the Gujarat Titans and whether the Gujarat visit of Yuvraj Singh is a stroke of mastermind strategy or merely a trip to meet friends before another edge-of-the-seat IPL finale.

Coaches serve as the backbone of any team or franchise. In this ongoing IPL season, many have fared exceptionally well, whilst some, including the likes of Stephen Fleming from CSK, have come under the scanner for their team's disappointing performance. In a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo, former Australian legend Tom Moody was asked to name the best coach of the IPL 2025 season.

Moody was given two options at a time to select from. The names of numerous legendary figures came up during the discussion featuring the likes of Fleming, Flower, Jayawardene, Vettori, and Langer to name a few. He named his favorite picks based on their ongoing performance in this current season and not their historical performance. 

Moody names his favorite pick

Best coach of IPL 2025? 👀 pic.twitter.com/gt0W1oiLnm

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) May 27, 2025

Moody's answers certainly took a few users by surprise. First up, he was asked to make a selection between Fleming and Jayawardene. The former SRH legend picked Jayawardene's side on this one. Next up, he was asked to pick either NZ great Vettori or Jayawardene. Much to everyone's surprise, his preference remained the same as he chose Jayawardene over his Trans-Tasman rival. 

However, as the conversation progressed, he stumbled upon a minor roadblock when he was asked to make a tough choice between Zimbabwe legend Andy Flower and Jayawardene. He took a momentary pause before preferring Flower over the Lankan legend. Flower, then, seemed to be his consistent preference over Badani and Dravid. But that changed once again when Ashish Nehra from GT came into the picture. Moody recognized Nehra's instrumental contribution to the franchise not only in this season but also the prior seasons. 

And as fate would have it, Nehra emerged as Moody's favorite pick as he choose him over his Aussie counterparts like Langer and Ponting. This remarkable revelation left fans in awe since most of them, many of whom are from India, expected Moody to prefer his former teammates over Ashish Nehra. 

 See also: 'Dhoni finishes off in style'- Ravi Shastri turns 62; remember his ageless lines

Gujarat Titans' loss to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday has completely opened the battle for a spot in the top 2 spots in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 points table. While the four teams - Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB))—have achieved their spots in the Playoffs, only two of them can earn the privilege of playing in Qualifier 1, where they have the extra chance to qualify for the final.

GT is currently at the top of the points table with 18 points, having played all their league matches. On the table, they are stalking with caution, with the loss against CSK the last memory; all they have to hope for are other results in their favor. PBKS and MI will be playing next, with RCB playing against Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, and the results of these two games will determine who takes the two top spots.

Qualifier 1 is hugely beneficial, as the winner progresses directly to the final and the losing team gets a second chance in Qualifier 2, whereas the third and fourth place teams get to play the Eliminator - that is, a knockout match that will see off the loser.

What each team needs to get a top-two finish:

Punjab Kings (17 points): A win against MI will push PBKS to 19 points and ensure a top-two finish. A loss means they go into the Eliminator.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17 points): RCB must beat LSG to have a chance for a top-two finish. If they lose against LSG, their chances are slim at best, depending on net run rate.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 67: Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings Full Match Highlights

Mumbai Indians (16 points): A win over PBKS gives MI 18 points—which may get them a top-two finish depending on the RCB result.

Gujarat Titans (18 points): GT needs PBKS and RCB to lose assuredly. If they do, GT finishes in the top two along with MI.

The league stage is nearing the end, and the battle for the top two has never been hotter or more discouraging, as each run scored is critical. The next two games determine the road to the IPL 2025 final.

In a spirited display of solidarity, the Gujarat Titans will wear lavender jerseys in their IPL 2025 encounter against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday, May 22. The gesture is a testament to awareness about cancer and the need to detect it early.

This is the third year running that the Ahmedabad-based team has worn the lavender kit for the cancer cause. The Titans, who are famous for determination on the field, are now utilizing their platform to draw attention to a vital health concern off the field. By moving away from their usual colour, the franchise is making a much bigger statement outside of cricket.

As sportsmen, we are aware of the platform that we have to bring change," commented GT captain Shubman Gill. Sporting these lavender jerseys is our gesture of solidarity with cancer warriors and paying tribute to their strength. We feel that through awareness and education, we can empower people to manage their health and create a future where cancer is no longer an invincible enemy.

ALSO SEE: IPL 2025: Vaibhav Suryavanshi reveals real reason behind his tears after emotional debut dismissal

Gujarat Titans express solidarity for cancer awareness through lavender jerseys

To further reinforce the message, Gujarat Titans will provide 30,000 lavender flags and 10,000 lavender jerseys to spectators at the match. The drive hopes to turn the stadium into a sea of lavender in a symbolic gesture for cancer awareness and solidarity with survivors.

Strength isn't just in the game, it's for standing in for a cause 🙌

Join us on 22nd May as our Titans don the lavender jersey to support the fight against cancer! pic.twitter.com/xQC9hjoe34

— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) May 17, 2025

Colonel Arvinder Singh, Chief Operating Officer of the franchise, emphasized the significance of the campaign. “This is the third consecutive year Gujarat Titans are batting for the cause of cancer awareness. We’re glad to have our fans by our side who have shown consistent support in echoing the message for early diagnosis and pre-emptive care. On May 22, Ahmedabad will echo the message of solidarity from thousands of spectators in the fight against cancer.”

Now leading at the top of the IPL 2025 table with 18 points and a playoffs spot already guaranteed, the Gujarat Titans are not only dominating cricket but also compassion. With only two league matches to go, they continue to capture hearts both on and off the pitch.

The playoff fight for the IPL 2025 is tightening as Gujarat Titans (GT) became the first side to officially book their spot in the play-offs after registering a vital win against Delhi Capitals (DC). By winning this match, GT not only secured a top-four spot but also became credible contenders for a top-two spot, which provides an additional chance at the final. GT's win have also made sure that GT are qualified, they have also made sure that RCB and PBKS are also through to the playoffs spot.

GT's campaign have been characterized by consistency, well-balanced performances, and astute captaincy. With inputs from both experienced players and upstarts, the Titans have resembled one of the most well-balanced teams this season. Their recent victory against DC was a clinical demonstration of purpose, confirming their playoff spot with games still in hand.

With the qualification done, GT will be aiming high and to finish in the top two spots, as this would mean that they will get a maximum of two shots at the finals of IPL 2025. Currently, GT are top of the ladder with 18 points, followed by RCB and PBKS at 17 points each. GT have played 12 games so far and has won 9 games, losing just three games. With the race for two intensifies between these teams, it will be interesting to see which team finishes in the top two spots. 

Also see: IPL 2025: 'We couldn't carry on...' - Sanju Samson criticizes Rajasthan Royals batting department against PBKS

GT defeat DC by 10 wickets

Gujarat Titans showcased a dominant performance by defeating Delhi Capitals by 10 wickets in their IPL 2025 encounter. Chasing a challenging target of 200 runs, the two openers, Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill, produced a spectacular batting performance. Sudharsan made an unbeaten 108 in 61 balls, and captain Gill scored an unbeaten 93 in 53 balls. Their partnership of 205 runs, without loss of any wicket, guided Gujarat to a comprehensive win in 19 overs, displaying their dominance in the tournament and sending a clear message about their title contention.

Earlier in the match, Delhi Capitals posted a competitive 199/3 in their 20 overs, thanks to a brilliant century from Rahul, who scored an unbeaten 112 off 65 balls. Abishek Porel added 30 runs, while Axar Patel chipped in with a quick 25. Despite the strong batting show, Delhi’s bowlers failed to defend the total, as GT's batting lineup made light work of the chase. None of the bowlers could make a breakthrough, allowing Gujarat to dominate from start to finish. With this victory, Gujarat Titans continue their stellar run, blending solid batting and bowling performances as they surge towards the playoffs.

 In a one-sided match on May 18, 2025, Gujarat Titans (GT) overhauled 205 runs without losing a wicket against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. GT openers Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill wrote history with a dominating unbeaten 205-run partnership.

• Sai Sudharsan stayed not out on 108 off 61 balls (12 fours, 4 sixes).
• Shubman Gill added an unbeaten 93 off 53 balls (3 fours, 7 sixes).

Delhi bowlers found it tough to hold the onslaught, and GT completed the victory in 19 overs, improving their net run rate and reaching the playoffs of the IPL 2025. GT top the points table with 18 points from 12 games after this win.

Latest IPL 2025 Points Table:

As of May 18, 2025, following the match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and the Gujarat Titans (GT), the updated IPL 2025 points table is as follows:

Following Gujarat Titans’ dominant win over Delhi Capitals and the washout between RCB and KKR, the top of the table has taken final shape. Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings have officially qualified for the playoffs.

Also read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Harpreet Brar's classic thigh five celebration after dismissing Riyan Parag in RR vs PBKS match

Orange & Purple Cap in IPL 2025

Orange Cap (Most Runs):

• B Sai Sudharsan - 617 Runs
• Shubman Gill - 601 Runs
• Yashasvi Jaiswal - 523 Runs

Purple Cap (Most Wickets):

• Prasidh Krishna - 21 Wickets
• Noor Ahmad - 20 Wickets
• Josh Hazlewood - 18 wickets

With IPL 2025 set to resume on Saturday, 17th May, after an eight-day gap due to the military conflicts between India and Pakistan, seven teams are still in contention for the playoff berths. This forced break, courtesy of the geopolitical issues, forced the IPL Governing Council to release a revised schedule for the remaining matches. The 17 matches left have been shifted to six different locations, making it quite cramped for the teams, while also eliminating the last benefits of a home or away setting in the current season. 

This temporary pause couldn't have come at a worse time for Gujarat Titans (GT). Standing at the top of the points table, they would've hoped for continuity. But uncontrollable circumstances came their way, and now they would aim to pick up from where they left off, gaining consistency and momentum for one last push for the season. But in the absence of Jos Buttler for the final stretch, the Gujarat-based franchise will have to make some bold decisions in order to fill that void. 

See Also: BCCI drops bomb shell update on replacement players of remainder of IPL 2025

GT Qualification Scenario for IPL 2025

Matches Played: 11, Points: 16, Net Run Rate (NRR): 0.793

Upcoming Matches: Home – LSG (22^nd May), CSK (25^th May); Away – DC (18^th May)

Best Possible Finish: 22 points 

Gujarat Titans (GT) have bagged 16 points so far in their campaign and have 6 more points to play with. Their remaining matches are against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their fortress, Ahmedabad. They also play an away game against fellow playoff chasers in Delhi Capitals (DC), in Delhi. They're a force to reckon with at their home and can ensure destiny by winning their first two games after the resumption.

GT, though, are just one win away from making the playoffs. 18 points will assure a team of a top-four finish. However, if they lose their three remaining games, they could get knocked out as four teams can still finish on 17 or more points. Titans have a favourable itinerary too, with their last two games scheduled at home in Ahmedabad, where they have a formidable 4-1 record so far this season. Their net run rate is currently second only to Mumbai Indians (MI), which could aid them with qualification and a top-two finish.