R Ashwin takes huge call amid YouTube channel controversy

Chennai Super Kings’ veteran Ravichandran Ashwin has found himself entangled in controversy during IPL 2025. The situation escalated when Ashwin declared that he would no longer feature content related to CSK on his YouTube channel. This decision stemmed from backlash following his decision to share a video by Prasanna Agoram, a former RCB analyst. The video criticized CSK’s strategy of selecting Noor Ahmad over experienced players like Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Although Ashwin later removed the video from his channel, the criticism had already sparked considerable debate.

The tension was further amplified after CSK suffered a 25-run defeat against the Delhi Capitals in a home game on Saturday. Following the loss, questions about the video were directed at CSK head coach Stephen Fleming. Dismissing the matter as inconsequential, Fleming remarked, “I have no idea. I didn’t even know he had a channel, so I don’t know that stuff. That’s irrelevant.”

No more YouTube videos: R Ashwin

“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.