IPL 2025: Ashwin steps back from analysing CSK games on his YouTube channel

As if CSK weren’t already enduring enough troubles in the ongoing IPL season, another controversy has now surrounded the team. Famous for his deep insights into the game and the cricketing rulebook, Ravi Ashwin regularly shares his knowledge on his YouTube channel. The spin all-rounder, who announced his Test retirement last year, rejoined CSK, his first IPL franchise, at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Meanwhile, his channel, which enjoys considerable fan following and viewership, continues to review the league and its players. However, one specific review related to Ashwin’s team, CSK, has landed the channel in hot water. Amid roaring criticism from the Chennai Super Kings fanbase, Ashwin has taken a stern step to mitigate the controversy and avoid any further drama as the season progresses.

Ashwin issues clarification amid criticism for his YouTube channel's analysis of CSK in IPL 2025

Ravichandran Ashwin made a bold announcement on Sunday, stepping away from covering any content related to Chennai Super Kings on his YouTube channel for the remainder of IPL 2025. The former India off-spinner took this decision following a wave of backlash linked to a recent controversy during CSK’s campaign this season. Trouble began when Prasanna Agoram, ex-analyst for South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, questioned CSK's selection strategy in one of their recent matches. He took issue with the inclusion of Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad over seasoned bowlers like Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. 

The comments were featured in a video uploaded on Ashwin’s channel, which triggered criticism across social platforms. After the team lost the CSK vs DC IPL 2025 match, their third consecutive defeat in the season, head coach Stephen Fleming was asked about the controversy. However, Fleming denied having any knowledge of the matter. Despite his lack of awareness on the issue, the CSK head coach was quick to term it all "irrelevant".

"I have no idea. I didn't even know he had a channel, so I don't know that stuff. That's irrelevant."

Meanwhile, Ashwin, in response to the uproar, removed the video and addressed the situation. Ashwin, who stepped away from international cricket in December last year, later released a detailed message stating that his platform would refrain from discussing any CSK-related topics for the rest of the tournament.

🚨 PRESS NOTE BY ASHWIN's YOUTUBE CHANNEL 🚨

- Ashwin's Youtube Channel won't be covering CSK matches in IPL 2025. pic.twitter.com/rBoox0ZUVe

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 7, 2025

Noor Ahmad is currently the highest wicket-taker in IPL 2025 so far with 10 scalps across four matches. Ashwin, meanwhile, has managed just three wickets with his veteran partner, Jadeja picking just two this far. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings are scheduled to take on Punjab Kings in Chandigarh on Tuesday, followed by a clash against reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Friday.

"Given the nature of the discussions on this forum over the last week, we want to be mindful of how things can be interpreted and have chosen to step away from covering CSK games, both previews and reviews, for the rest of this season," a statement from Ashwin wrote.

"We value the diversity of perspectives that come through on our shows and remain committed to ensuring the conversation stays true to the integrity and purpose of the platform we've established. The views expressed by our guests do not reflect Ashwin's personal opinions. We appreciate all those who engage thoughtfully with the spirit of the show," it added.