'That’s why I decided to retire from IPL'; Ravichandran Ashwin reacts emotionally to Chennai’s performance

CHENNAI: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings have had a very poor start to this season. They have lost all three of their opening matches. Sanju Samson, who joined the team as an opener this season, has not been able to score even 10 runs in a single match so far. Meanwhile, former India player Ravichandran Ashwin has opened up about the circumstances that led to his retirement from IPL and his experience with the Chennai team.

Ashwin began his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings and was also part of the team when he retired. He said he wanted to play one or two more seasons but was mentally exhausted.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, “I watched the RCB vs Chennai Super Kings match from a neutral perspective. I had a disappointing season with CSK. Personally, it was a tough season for me. I wanted to play more matches, but emotionally I did not have the strength.”

He added, “It was painful for me. I started my IPL career in Chennai, and it ended in my home state. The management would have had a headache deciding whether to retain or release me. That is why I chose to retire. If I stepped away, they could save Rs 10 crore. I still feel disappointed about it. I had hopes back then.”

Speaking about CSK’s third loss, Ashwin said, “I felt RCB would win the match because they are strong. Still, I had hopes for CSK because of the improvements they showed in the previous game. But the way RCB played is a warning to everyone.” He also added that CSK should be more careful during the player auction.