Ravichandran Ashwin calling time on his IPL journey has brought many reactions from the cricketing world.
Among them, AB de Villiers’ words stood out as the South African legend reflected on Ashwin’s career.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
He praised his skill and also wishing the off-spinner had stayed with Chennai Super Kings for longer. Let's take a look at what he had to say.
AB de Villiers about Ashwin’s IPL career
AB de Villiers, who himself is an IPL great with over 5000 runs, spoke about Ashwin during a 360 Live session on X.
The former RCB star showered praise on Ashwin’s cricketing brain and called him “a professor of the game.”
“Stellar career. It has got to be said, what a wonderful player. What a scientist of the game. A doctor, professor of the game. He always took it to the limits of the rules book. I have a lot of respect for guys who study the game, and he was one of such cricketers,” said de Villiers
He also highlighted Ashwin’s batting ability, often overlooked by fans: “Very underrated with the bat. Whenever India was in trouble, he showed a lot of character with the bat in hand.”
READ: Who will open for India in Asia Cup 2025?
AB de Villiers feel Ashwin should have stayed at CSK
While Ashwin played for multiple franchises, de Villiers believes the off-spinner truly belonged to Chennai.
“A huge player and icon in India. He won so many games for Team India and CSK over the years. He played for other teams but never felt settled at those teams. In my opinion, he should have always stayed at CSK," said de Villiers.
He further explained that player retention and auction dynamics often dictate such moves, but for him personally, Ashwin will remain synonymous with CSK’s success story.
"Obviously, it was not up to him, as a lot of things go into that retention, all kinds of team selection. But I will always remember him as a yellow jersey guy,” added the RCB legend.
READ: Asia Cup 2025: Format, teams and groups explained
Ravichandran Ashwin retirement from IPL 2025
Ashwin had been part of the IPL since 2009 and represented five different teams over 16 seasons. After playing 221 matches, the veteran spinner announced his IPL retirement through a post on X.
The 38-year-old made it clear that while his IPL chapter was over, he wanted to continue playing in overseas franchise leagues. Reports suggest that Ashwin has already shown interest in The Hundred in England and ILT20 in the UAE.
For many fans, Ashwin will always be remembered in yellow. He first represented Chennai Super Kings between 2009 and 2016 and later returned in 2025.
He took 97 wickets in 106 matches for CSK and also contributed with the bat lower down the order. He also helped CSK win two IPL titles.
MORE: Asia Cup 2025: Complete schedule, dates, venues and teams
Which IPL teams has Ravichandran Ashwin played for? Full list
Below is the list of teams Ravichandran Ashwin has played IPL for:
- Chennai Super Kings
- Rising Pune Super Giants
- Punjab Kings
- Delhi Capitals
- Rajasthan Royals