Ravichandran Ashwin, a stalwart spinner renowned for his mastery across cricket formats, has encountered both triumphs and tribulations in the high-octane arena of the Indian Premier League (IPL). While his knack for securing crucial wickets has often been lauded, instances of leaking runs have also punctuated his IPL journey.
5th Expensive Spell: RCB vs CSK, 2012
In a showdown between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during the 2012 IPL season, Ashwin found himself under the onslaught of RCB’s batting prowess. Despite his efforts, including the dismissal of Moeen Ali, Ashwin conceded a hefty 46 runs in four overs. CSK managed to chase down RCB’s formidable total, with Faf du Plessis leading the charge.
4th Expensive Spell: DC vs CSK, 2021
Representing Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 2021 IPL season, Ashwin confronted the formidable Chennai Super Kings lineup. Despite claiming the crucial wicket of Moeen Ali, Ashwin struggled to contain the run flow, conceding 47 runs in his quota of four overs. However, DC’s strong batting performance, spearheaded by Shikhar Dhawan and Prithvi Shaw, ensured a comfortable victory.
3rd Expensive Spell: PBKS vs KKR, 2019
During the 2019 IPL season, Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced off against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with Ashwin shouldering the bowling responsibilities. However, his efforts were thwarted by KKR’s aggressive batting display, led by Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, and Andre Russell. Ashwin’s figures of 0/47 in four overs contributed to PBKS’s defeat by a margin of 28 runs.
2nd Expensive Spell: RR vs KKR, 2024
In a recent clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Ashwin’s performance came under scrutiny as he leaked 49 runs in four overs. KKR’s Sunil Narine, in particular, capitalized on Ashwin’s bowling, amassing a formidable total of 223 runs. The match witnessed a dominant display from KKR, leaving Ashwin and RR on the back foot.
Ashwin’s Costliest Outing: SRH vs PBKS, 2018
During IPL 2018, in a gripping encounter between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab), Ashwin faced an onslaught from SRH’s batting duo, Manish Pandey and Kane Williamson. Despite a valiant effort, Ashwin’s figures of 0/53 in four overs proved to be decisive in SRH’s pursuit of Punjab’s total. However, Punjab’s bowlers rallied to secure a 15-run victory, salvaging Ashwin’s expensive spell.
As Ashwin continues to be a pivotal figure in IPL cricket, these instances serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of the sport, where even the most seasoned players encounter challenging moments. Despite the setbacks, Ashwin’s resilience and skill remain integral to his team’s success in the IPL arena.
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