On Saturday (August 30, 2025), Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) announced that Rahul Dravid will not continue as their head coach ahead of the IPL 2026. Through a media release, the franchise informed that after a conversation, both parties decided to part ways. According to the franchise, they offered Rahul a more dynamic role, but he chose to step down rather than accept the new role. Thus, before the upcoming IPL season, the inaugural champion of the tournament will have to appoint a new coach to guide the troop.

"Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey over many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, built strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise. As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise but has chosen not to take this," the statement read.

Dravid's second spell with Rajasthan Royals was underwhelming. The former India captain served the team between2011 and 2015 as player and coach before returning to the club for the IPL 2025 season right after winning the T20 World Cup title. But his comeback became short-lived as Dravid and Rajasthan Royals decided to separate. 

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Both had a tough time

Despite some promising matches and batting displays, as a team RR faced a tough season in 2025. His strategy during the mega auction was also under scrutiny. Ahead of the auction, they left multiple big names of world cricket and invested in some underrated talents. As a result, in 14 games they managed to win only four and finished as the ninth team of the points table. 

For most of the season, Dravid was in a wheelchair because of a foot injury he received while playing a club cricket match in Bengaluru. The coach and the club, both sides, had a tough time in IPL 2025. 

In a significant turn of events just days before the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, former India head coach and batting great, Rahul Dravid, has stepped down from his role as head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR). The franchise made the announcement in an official statement posted on social media on August 30. 

Dravid himself had stepped down from his role as head coach of Team India following the T20 World Cup, but was re-hired by Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2025. However, Dravid's return lasted only one season after an underwhelming season for the Rajasthan Royals (RR) as they finished ninth on the points table and therefore missed the playoffs.

Official Statement pic.twitter.com/qyHYVLVewz

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) August 30, 2025

Dravid's long association with RR

Dravid has a very deep history with the Royals, having been the Captain for 2 years (2012 and 2013). It was also in 2014 and 2015 that Rahult took on the role of team director/mentor and worked with a number of young players at the time. In addition to these leadership roles, Dravid has obviously mentored and shaped Sanju Samson's early days since they were working together in the Under-19 setup. However, despite this high-performance association, Dravid's second stint with RR has ended rather suddenly.

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As reported, the Royals management had offered Dravid a bigger role as part of a structural review of the franchise, and Dravid declined that offer and subsequently parted ways with the franchise. His decision comes at a precarious time for RR. Speculation is peaking around the future of wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson with the team. The wicketkeeper is connected to a potential departure from the franchise, and CSK is thought to be one of the interested parties. 

What is next for RR? 

Dravid's sudden exit leaves RR facing indecision. After finishing in the bottom half of the table in IPL 2025, the franchise will need to find a head coach who is capable of rebuilding the side and returning the franchise to competitiveness. With the potential exit of Samson, the off-season will react differently than in previous seasons. The 2026 season will likely be a pivotal time for the Men in Pink. 

For now, Dravid's exit signals the end of yet another chapter in his association with the Rajasthan Royals, one which was expected to bring stability but ended sooner with unfinished business.

For almost two decades, the controversial IPL slapgate incident between Harbhajan Singh and Sreesanth stayed unresolved. The actual video footage was kept away from the public eye, leaving fans with only fragments of information.

The incident took place during the inaugural IPL season when Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) defeated Mumbai Indians. It was known Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth, but reasons remained unclear. To add to the drama, broadcasters had switched to commercials, and by the time live coverage resumed, viewers saw Sreesanth in tears, leaving the cricketing world stunned.

These were Indian teammates clashing on a global stage, making the controversy even bigger. Over the years, however, both cricketers have moved past the episode. Harbhajan and Sreesanth eventually reconciled, leaving behind the bitterness and rebuilding a friendship that once seemed impossible.

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The Infamous IPL “slapgate” Incident:

The slapgate saga marked the IPL’s first major on-field controversy, shaping the league’s reputation for dramatic flashpoints. Tensions rose when Sreesanth, after Punjab’s emphatic 66-run victory, approached Mumbai Indians skipper Harbhajan Singh with a “hard luck” comment, sparking a reaction that remains unforgettable in tournament history.

Earlier in the match, Sreesanth had dismissed Shaun Pollock and exchanged words with Robin Uthappa, who was leading MI’s chase. These actions reportedly upset the Mumbai camp, and tensions spilled over after the game. Harbhajan eventually lost his cool and slapped his younger teammate.

The incident still feels uncomfortable to watch even today. In the handshake line, Harbhajan shockingly slapped Sreesanth with a backhand, leaving spectators completely stunned. The fact that an experienced India cricketer got physical with his national teammate shocked players and fans alike.

Once Sreesanth understood what had happened, he reacted instantly and charged toward Harbhajan, nearly escalating the situation into a fight. Fortunately, Irfan Pathan and Mahela Jayawardene stepped in quickly, restraining the pacer and preventing matters from spiraling further. Pathan also confronted Harbhajan, but he appeared in no mood to calm down, even gesturing outside the ground as if daring for the confrontation to continue.

Despite Harbhajan’s dressing room apology, Sreesanth’s tearful moment became an iconic IPL image. Punjab captain Yuvraj Singh, a close friend, condemned the act, and the BCCI imposed a season-long suspension on Harbhajan.

Lalit Modi Opens up About the Incident:

After 17 years, the long-awaited clip of the infamous IPL slapgate surfaced when IPL founder and former chairman Lalit Modi revealed it during Michael Clarke's ‘Beyond23’ podcast. The release reignited memories of the shocking incident, which had once shaken the tournament and left fans debating what truly transpired between Harbhajan Singh and S Sreesanth during that heated clash.

Lalit Modi said, “ I'll tell you what happened. I will give you the video. I have kept it back. Bhajji is a very dear friend of mine. I love him. It happened on the field, and I was there. It was Bhajji, and it was Sreesanth.”

One of the wildest moments in IPL history, Unseen footage of the Bhajji–Sreesanth slapgate that never been aired#IPL pic.twitter.com/E9Ux8bodOW

— Vishal (@Fanpointofviews) August 29, 2025

He added, “ The game was over, and the cameras were shut off. Only one of my security cameras was on. As the team finished playing, the players were high-fiv5'ing' and shaking hands with each other. When it came to Sreesanth and Bhajji. Harbhajan just said to him, ‘Come here', and gave him a backhander.”

Harbhajan Singh Regrets for His Action:

Harbhajan Singh recently reflected on the infamous slapgate controversy with Sreesanth, admitting it is the biggest regret of his career. He confessed that, if possible, he would erase that incident, describing it as an unnecessary and avoidable mistake during his cricketing journey.

He said, “ One thing I'd want to change in my life is that incident with Sreesanth. I want to remove that incident from my career. That is the incident I would change from my list. What transpired was wrong and I shouldn't have done what I did. I apologised 200 times. What I felt so bad was even years after that incident, I have been apologising every opportunity or stage I get. It was a mistake.”

He further said, “ What hurt me even after many years was when I met his daughter and I was talking to her with a lot of love and she said, 'I don't want to talk to you. You hit my father.' My heart was shattered and I was on the verge of tears.”

He added, “ I was asking myself what is the impression I've left on her? She must be thinking of me in a poor light, right? She sees me as the guy who hit her father. I felt so bad. I still apologise to his daughter.”

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend Ravichandran Ashwin said that being ambitious and confident from an early age helped him succeed at all levels. The Tamil Nadu off-spinner recently announced his IPL retirement, months after leaving international cricket.

Ashwin started his IPL career in 2009 with CSK and helped the team win back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011. He is also the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, with 187 wickets in 221 matches. Ashwin also has an impressive international record, taking 765 wickets in 287 matches across all formats.

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Ashwin Reflects on His Career

Days after announcing his IPL retirement on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin said:

"Had anyone said I would achieve so much at the start of my career, I would have been surprised. When you first try to make it big, the world will often oppose you, saying 'He's an overthinker, over ambitious, and too big to fit in the glove.' I have heard many such things about myself. But if I am not ambitious about my own life, who will be?"

He continued: 

"Even when I played for CSK, Muttiah Muralitharan was the main off-spinner. Many said, 'There is no way two off-spinners will play.' But I wanted to prove people wrong and thought, 'I'll make them play two off-spinners.' I see that as my confidence. I even said I'll play ahead of Muralitharan. This is not me belittling him. I just wanted to reach his level."

Ashwin is the eighth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket with 537 wickets, including 37 five-wicket hauls.

IPL 2025 and Career Stats

Ravichandran Ashwin had a poor IPL 2025 season with CSK. The team bought him for ₹9.75 crore, marking his return after his first stint ended in 2015. He picked up only seven wickets in nine matches, with an average of over 40 and an economy of 9.12. CSK finished at the bottom of the table with four wins in 14 games.

After CSK, Ashwin played for Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) from 2016 to 2024. He ended his international career with 765 wickets in 287 matches. In the IPL, he took 187 wickets in 220 matches. Apart from bowling, Ashwin also scored six centuries in Test cricket.

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.

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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)

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian off-spinner, officially announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Wednesday, August 27. His decision comes shortly after uncertainty arose regarding his place in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad for the 2026 season.

The 38-year-old endured a challenging IPL 2025 campaign, where he picked up just seven wickets across nine games. With an average of 40.42 and an economy rate of 9.12, Ashwin struggled to deliver the consistent performances that once made him one of the league’s most reliable bowlers.

Having already stepped away from international cricket in December last year, Ashwin confirmed his IPL retirement through a heartfelt social media post. He expressed gratitude for his journey, stating that his time as an IPL cricketer has concluded. He also signaled a fresh chapter, planning to explore cricket leagues worldwide for opportunities.

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

Statistical Comparison Between Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja:

Off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin brought the curtains down on his IPL career after 221 matches, finishing as the league’s fifth-highest wicket-taker. Following his retirement, it’s fitting to draw a comparison between his impressive IPL record and that of his long-time spin-bowling ally, Ravindra Jadeja, to see how the two stalwarts matched up statistically across their journeys.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Which spinner leads in wickets after 221 games?

Ravichandran Ashwin closed his IPL career with 221 appearances, where he picked up 187 wickets at an average of 30.22. His standout year came in 2011, finishing with 20 wickets at an impressive average of 19.40. Another productive run was in 2014, when he grabbed 16 wickets, averaging 27.31 for the season.

Ravindra Jadeja, after 221 IPL matches, secured 147 wickets at an average of 29.60. His best season statistically was in 2014, where he took 19 wickets at an average of 23.31. In 2019, Jadeja showcased his consistency, claiming 15 wickets at 22.86, reinforcing his value as a dependable IPL spinner.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Better Economy Rate Comparison After 221 IPL Matches:

Ravichandran Ashwin closed his IPL career with an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Between 2010 and 2013, he consistently kept it under seven, with 2015 standing out as his best season at just 5.84. Even in later years, from 2019 to 2023, he maintained figures below eight before his final two seasons saw his economy rise to 8.49 and 9.12.

Ravindra Jadeja, after completing 221 IPL matches, registered an economy rate of 7.59. His best came in 2009 with 6.47 and again in 2019 with 6.35. Between 2011 and 2013, he managed to stay under eight consistently, showing great control. However, the 2017 season proved difficult, where his economy rose sharply to 9.18.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Who claimed more four-wicket hauls after 221 IPL games?

Ravichandran Ashwin managed just one four-wicket haul in his long IPL career. His best figures of 4/34 came in the 2016 season at Visakhapatnam while playing for Rising Pune Supergiants against Kings XI Punjab. In that game, he dismissed Hashim Amla, Murali Vijay, Gurkeerat Singh, and David Miller, helping his side secure a four-wicket victory.

Ravindra Jadeja, on the other hand, had a stronger record with three four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul after 221 matches. Jadeja’s best figures, 5/16, came in 2012 for CSK against Deccan Chargers at Visakhapatnam. In the same match, Jadeja also contributed a quickfire 48 off 29 balls, guiding CSK to a dominant 74-run win with his all-round brilliance.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Who holds the superior batting strike rate after 221 matches?

Ashwin managed 833 runs in 98 IPL innings, averaging 13.01 with a strike rate of 118.15. He scored just one fifty in the league, a 50 off 38 deliveries for Rajasthan Royals against Delhi Capitals in 2022 at DY Patil Stadium. Batting at No. 3, he struck four boundaries and two sixes.

In comparison, Jadeja collected 2,594 runs across 168 innings, with a better average of 26.20 and a strike rate of 128.16. The all-rounder registered two fifties, his best being an unbeaten 62 off 28 balls for Chennai Super Kings against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021. That match also highlighted his all-round brilliance, as he smashed 36 runs in one over and picked up 3-13.

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.

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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.

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most successful spinners, has officially retired from the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2026 mini-auction. Making his debut in 2009, Ashwin carved a remarkable career in the tournament, finishing as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure made him one of the most reliable bowlers across franchises.

Harbhajan Singh, another legendary off-spinner for India, also finds a place among the top wicket-takers in IPL history, standing 13th on the list. Widely regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has produced, Harbhajan’s skill and control helped him earn immense respect during his IPL and international career.

While both spinners operated with similar foundations, their styles showed subtle differences. Ashwin often experimented with variations to stay ahead of batters, whereas Harbhajan relied more on traditional off-spin, making both unique in their own right.

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Comparing Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh’s IPL Records:

With that in mind, it’s interesting to draw a comparison between R Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh’s records after playing 163 IPL matches. Both legendary off-spinners left a lasting mark on the league, though their approaches and wicket-taking abilities highlight contrasting yet impactful bowling journeys.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: Complete Statistical Comparison:

Neither Ashwin nor Harbhajan managed a standout season with 20+ wickets, yet both remained reliable choices for their franchises. As frontline off-spinners, they played a key role in containing runs during the middle overs, creating pressure, and setting the stage for strike bowlers. Their ability to pick timely wickets further enhanced their value.

When comparing their records after 163 matches, the numbers reveal very little difference. Harbhajan concluded his IPL journey at that milestone, whereas Ashwin was still active and competing midway through the 2021 season. This makes their statistical comparison even more compelling for cricket fans.

Both bowlers recorded nearly identical wicket counts and economy rates over their IPL journeys. Harbhajan Singh held a narrow lead in terms of wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin initially maintained a slight edge with his tighter economy. Their overall numbers reflected remarkable consistency and effectiveness in the tournament.

However, Ashwin’s figures took a hit in his later years as aggressive modern-day batters targeted him more often. His struggles during the IPL 2025 season further impacted his record, eventually pushing his career economy rate above Harbhajan’s. By the end, Ashwin’s economy stood at 7.20, slightly higher than his counterpart.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: CSK Career Statistics:

Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh share the distinction of donning the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey and celebrating title victories with the team. However, they never played together for the franchise, with Ashwin departing after 2015 and returning a decade later in 2025, while Harbhajan featured during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.

Ashwin spent the early years of his IPL career at CSK, learning under the leadership of MS Dhoni and delivering crucial performances that established him as a reliable bowler. His time with the “Men in Yellow” shaped much of his journey in the league.

Harbhajan, meanwhile, joined CSK after their comeback from suspension, adding experience and depth. Though their numbers differ significantly, both left a lasting impact.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: Wickets Contributing to Team Victories:

Spinners often play a decisive role in T20 cricket, with their biggest impact coming through wickets. While some spinners focus more on restricting runs rather than attacking for wickets, the fast-paced nature of the format often forces batters into mistakes, helping even defensive bowlers create breakthroughs.

Both Harbhajan Singh and R Ashwin were crucial in their teams’ victories over the years. Harbhajan’s brilliant spell in the 2013 IPL Final for Mumbai Indians and Ashwin’s standout bowling in CSK’s 2011 title win are prime examples of how both men delivered when it mattered most for their franchises.

Harbhajan Singh featured in 95 victories during his IPL career, which accounted for 58.2 percent of his total matches. In those wins, he proved highly effective with the ball, claiming 104 wickets at an impressive average of 21.37 while maintaining an excellent economy rate of 6.70.

Ravichandran Ashwin, meanwhile, collected 90 wickets in his first 163 IPL games where his side ended victorious. By the close of his career, he improved those numbers to 117 wickets in 119 wins, averaging 25.02 with the ball and keeping his economy rate steady at 6.69.

The recently approved Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, has sent shockwaves through not just Indian cricket but also the advertising and gaming industries. This law bans real money gaming platforms and advertising, completely eliminating one of the biggest sources of sponsorship revenues in sport. 

Several IPL franchises from the KKR, LSG, and SRH had lucrative sponsorships with these gaming companies, earning anywhere between ₹10-20 crore in revenue per franchise annually. Those revenue streams are now gone. Even with smaller leagues, state tournaments, and legends competitions, where the revenue streams relied on these sponsorships for survival, will also see drastically reduced revenues. 

Industry experts are estimating that the overall advertising market is losing on average ₹8,000-10,000 crore a year. Karan Taurani, executive vice president at Elara Capital, said, "Online gaming companies accounted for nearly 7-8% of India's total ad spends, and now that will disappear by almost 80%". His view is that real money gaming made up 75-80% of the entire gaming market, which will directly entail serious consequences for digital advertising, and in total, digital advertising will shrink by 15-20%.

ALSO SEE:WATCH: 23-year-old uncapped opener's 300 plus strike rate batting wrecked havoc in DPL 2025

Online Gaming Ban Impacts Sports Sponsorships

Cricketers will also feel the crunch. Fantasy platforms like Dream11, My11 Circle, and MPL had brand endorsement deals with leading players. Following the ban, player endorsement income is estimated to fall by 20-25%, which is an approximate loss of ₹150-200 crores yearly. This decline will affect the younger cricketers and players outside the top tier the most, as a majority depended solely on these deals as income for brand revenue.

The government, however, has defended itself, at least in part. It cited several public-grade complaints concerning widespread and huge monetary losses amongst gamers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that while endorsing the bill, it would “save our society from the ills of online money games, which can be harmful to our society”. Critics stated that if gaming is going to be controlled as a social issue, then other areas, such as liquor and casinos, should also be addressed similarly due to social issues.

To enforce the ban, they blocked banking channels that allowed for transactions. There will be a “national authority” that will regulate compliance, classify online games, and impose fines of ₹1 crore or three years’ imprisonment for offenders.

The new law should disrupt the ecosystem of digital advertising in India, but will undoubtedly create a sad lasting impression on cricket sponsorships, sports leagues, and brand endorsements.

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.

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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.