'You are Being Defensive': R Ashwin Reveals What Virat Kohli Told Him During IPL Eliminator

Rajasthan Royals produced a fine all-round performance in the IPL 2024 Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals. RR will now meet Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday. RR’s off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin’s match-winning spell of 4-0-19-2 helped seal the deal for Sanju Samson-led outfit.

After winning the crucial knock by 4 wickets, Ashwin – who also won the player of the match – revealed that RCB icon Virat Kohli asked him not to be defensive.

“After I bowled my fifth ball, I put the extra cover fielder back on the boundary getting the point fielder in the circle. He (Virat Kohli) told me that you are being too defensive,” laughed Ashwin.

Ashwin also mentioned that in his mind, he never wants to give champion batters an inch. He also said that he looks up to such battles during the match as it helps him to improve.

“These guys (RCB) came to this match with a lot of momentum. It wasn’t easy for them. I really enjoyed their run.”

Ravichandran Ashwin, since his debut in IPL, back in 2009, has been an integral bowler for any team he played in. Starting his career with Chennai Super Kings, he also represented Rising Pune Supergiant (2016), Kings XI Punjab (2018-19) and Delhi Capitals (2020-21) before Rajasthan Royals bought him in 2022.

In his 211 IPL matches, he has taken 180 wickets with his economy looming at an impressive 7.10. He has also lifted the IPL trophy twice while representing Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011. Apart from that, he has played the IPL final seven times with the last one coming in 2022 where Rajasthan Royals lost to Gujarat Titans.

Looking beyond the IPL, Ashwin has represented India in 100 test matches (516 wickets) and 116 one-day internationals (156 wickets). He was also a part of the Indian cricket contingent that lifted the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013.

Before yesterday’s match, Ashwin was having a below-par season with just 7 wickets in 13 games but his impressive spell helped Rajasthan Royals fix a date with Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium.

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