When R Ashwin speaks about the IPL, fans listen. But this time, he’s made them gasp.
In a recent interview, the veteran off-spinner and two-time IPL winner dropped a bombshell: he’s excluded Chennai Super Kings (CSK)—the franchise he once captained and helped win the 2021 title—from his list of IPL 2026 contenders. Instead, Ashwin placed his money on Mumbai Indians (MI) as frontrunners, followed by defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and a surprising inclusion that caught even analysts off guard .
For CSK loyalists still celebrating their 2023 triumph, this is more than a snub—it’s a seismic shift in perception. With MS Dhoni likely playing his final season and a core aging beyond its prime, Ashwin’s assessment may be less opinion and more prophecy.
Ashwin’s predicted hierarchy for IPL 2026 contenders is both strategic and revealing:
Notably absent: CSK, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sunrisers Hyderabad—all past champions. “It’s not about legacy,” Ashwin clarified. “It’s about current trajectory and squad adaptability” .
Ashwin didn’t mince words. CSK’s biggest strength—experience—is becoming its Achilles’ heel:
While CSK remains a playoff-caliber side, Ashwin argues they lack the explosive upside needed to win a 100+ match tournament. “To win IPL 2026, you need X-factor players who can win you 5 games solo. CSK’s model is built on collective consistency—not fireworks” .
Ashwin singled out MI’s re-signing of Quinton de Kock as a masterstroke. “They’re recreating their 2020 blueprint—one of the most balanced squads ever,” he said .
MI’s strength lies in layers:
With a strong scouting system and the deepest bench in the league, MI are positioned not just to compete—but to dominate.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru earned their spot after finally breaking their trophy drought in 2025. Ashwin praised their mix of veterans (Kohli, Maxwell) and rising stars (Rajat Patidar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s leadership).
Punjab Kings, long seen as underachievers, have stabilized with Shikhar Dhawan’s mentorship and a focus on Indian talent—plus the explosive potential of Liam Livingstone.
But the real shocker? Rajasthan Royals as the fourth pick. Ashwin highlighted their “quiet consistency”—a core of Jaiswal, Buttler, Samson, and Chahal, backed by uncapped gems like Akash Vasisht. “They don’t make headlines, but they win games,” he noted.
Social media erupted:
“Ashwin forgot who gave him an IPL trophy? CSK betrayed?” – @YellowArmyFan
“Respect his opinion, but CSK always finds a way. Count them out at your peril.” – @CricketTruther
Yet others agreed: “He’s not wrong. CSK needs a rebuild, not a remix.”
This isn’t Ashwin’s first contrarian take. In 2022, he predicted KKR would outperform PBKS—his then-team—citing better death bowling. He was right.
As a thinker of the game, Ashwin prioritizes logic over loyalty—a trait that’s made him one of cricket’s most respected analysts post-retirement from IPL captaincy.
Ashwin’s IPL 2026 contenders list is less about snubs and more about cold, hard assessment. CSK’s legacy is secure—but legacy doesn’t win tournaments. Youth, depth, and explosive variance do.
Whether you agree or not, one thing is clear: the IPL’s new era belongs to franchises built for volatility, not just nostalgia. And if Ashwin’s reading is accurate, 2026 might see a new name—or a familiar one—lift the trophy, while CSK watches from the wings.
In a stunning display of dedication, Thailand cricketer Natthakan Chantham is relentlessly practicing Suryakumar Yadav’s…
From the 1983 World Cup to Colombo 2026, Zimbabwe has repeatedly punched above its weight…
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has called for a major tactical shift in India's bowling attack…
In a stunning turn of events at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Zimbabwe defeated cricket giants…
Both Canada and the UAE are reeling from heavy defeats to start their T20 World…
From watching Dhoni's iconic World Cup six in a US living room to smashing boundaries…