Ravichandran Ashwin expressed deep gratitude to MS Dhoni for bringing him back to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Speaking at the launch event of Leo – The Untold Story of Chennai Super Kings, written by senior advocate and former Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) vice-president PS Raman, Ashwin recalled Dhoni’s pivotal role in shaping his early IPL career.
A Star-Studded Event with CSK Legends
The book launch, held on Sunday, featured CSK icons, including MS Dhoni, head coach Stephen Fleming, and batting coach Mike Hussey. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth, who felicitated Ashwin at the event, praised the off-spinner’s journey from a Tamil Nadu cricketer to one of India’s most successful bowlers.
Dhoni’s Masterstroke: Handing Ashwin the New Ball
Ashwin reminisced about his early days with CSK, recalling a defining moment in IPL 2010 when Dhoni trusted him with the new ball. After a brief stint in IPL 2009, Dhoni reassured Ashwin on Facebook that he would be used more effectively in the upcoming season.
“In my first game back, Dhoni handed me the new ball against Mumbai Indians (MI) and simply shrugged his shoulders, leaving me to figure things out. He doesn’t say much, but he asked if I could get Kieron Pollard out while defending 166. As fate would have it, Pollard skied one of my deliveries, resulting in one of the most bizarre catches by Thilan Thushara and Murali Vijay,” Ashwin recalled.
A Token of Gratitude to Dhoni
Reflecting on his cricketing journey, Ashwin acknowledged the role of luck in his career. He also revealed that he had hoped for Dhoni to present him with a memento during his 100th Test match against England in Dharamsala, which he had initially planned as his final game.
“MS couldn’t make it, but he gave me a much better gift—bringing me back to CSK. So, thank you to Dhoni,” Ashwin said.
Srikkanth Applauds Dhoni’s Vision
Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth praised Dhoni’s keen eye for talent, crediting him for recognizing Ashwin’s potential and transforming him into a world-class bowler across all formats.
“The man who identified Ashwin is Dhoni. He evolved from T20 to ODIs to Tests in an amazing manner. Not just a great bowler, but also a fantastic batter. Even Chris Gayle, who dominated every bowler, had his legs shaking when facing Ashwin,” Srikkanth remarked.
Welcoming Ashwin back to the franchise, Srikkanth referred to him as the “prodigal son,” returning home to CSK for the 2025 IPL season.
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A Bond Built Over the Years
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan also reflected on his long-standing relationship with Ashwin, dating back to his early days playing the Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu. He recalled forming a strong bond with the off-spinner during the 2009 IPL in South Africa, a connection that has now come full circle with Ashwin’s return to the franchise.
CSK Gears Up for IPL 2025
With Ashwin back in the squad, Chennai Super Kings, the five-time IPL champions, are set to begin their 2025 campaign against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23 at Chepauk Stadium. The return of a seasoned campaigner like Ashwin adds depth to the squad as CSK looks to add another title to its illustrious history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to CSK significant?
Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings marks a homecoming for the off-spinner, who played a key role in CSK’s success during his early IPL years under MS Dhoni’s leadership.
What did Ashwin say about MS Dhoni’s impact on his career?
Ashwin credited Dhoni for trusting him with the new ball early in his IPL career, which helped shape him into a confident and versatile bowler.
What was the key moment Ashwin recalled from IPL 2010?
He highlighted a match against Mumbai Indians where Dhoni handed him the new ball to bowl against Sachin Tendulkar and Kieron Pollard, a move that boosted his confidence.
What role did Dhoni play in Ashwin’s evolution as a bowler?
Dhoni recognized Ashwin’s potential and gave him opportunities to bowl in crucial situations, helping him develop into an all-format match-winner for India.
How did Kris Srikkanth describe Ashwin’s journey?
Srikkanth praised Ashwin’s growth from a T20 bowler to a dominant force in ODIs and Tests, crediting Dhoni for discovering and nurturing his talent.
What special gift did Ashwin hope for from Dhoni during his 100th Test?
Ashwin wanted Dhoni to present him a memento during his 100th Test against England in Dharamsala, but Dhoni instead gave him a greater gift—bringing him back to CSK.
How did CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan describe his bond with Ashwin?
Viswanathan recalled his first interactions with Ashwin during his Ranji Trophy days and their growing friendship during the 2009 IPL in South Africa.
When will CSK play their first match in IPL 2025?
Chennai Super Kings will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Mumbai Indians on March 23 at their home ground, Chepauk Stadium.
Conclusion
Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings is a heartfelt reunion with the franchise where his IPL journey began. His reflections on MS Dhoni’s leadership highlight the former CSK captain’s influence in shaping his career, from handing him the new ball in crucial moments to instilling confidence in his abilities. With CSK gearing up for another thrilling IPL season, Ashwin’s experience and skill will be instrumental in their quest for a sixth title.
