Ravichandran Ashwin questions CSK’s decision-making despite crucial win over DC in IPL 2026

Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin questioned Chennai Super Kings’ tactics despite their 23-run win against Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Saturday. CSK’s number three batter Ayush Mhatre retired out after scoring 59 runs off 36 balls but Ashwin reckons the youngster should have been called back by the franchise a bit earlier as the likes of Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube could have scored quick runs.

After the 15-over mark, Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre could only manage 15 runs off 15 deliveries as humidity and fatigue got to them. Thus, to add the finishing touches, Shivam Dube replaced Mhatre in the middle, and the former scored a cameo of 10-ball 20.

Ashwin said Delhi Capitals should have chased down 213 runs as the wicket was a featherbed.

“Delhi should have chased this score down, I think even 230 would have been less, the wicket was that good. Delhi could not adapt. CSK had the chance to score 230-240, and they lost the opportunity. They did not do two things. Sure, Ayush Mhatre scored a fifty, but they have so many spin hitters like Brevis and Dube. So, they should have taken that risk,” R Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

“Ayush Mhatre played really well, scored 50 off 30 balls, but Brevis or Dube can hit 3-4 sixes in an over. They have that ability. If there were two 20-run overs, then the score would have been 240. CSK were at 160 after the 15th over mark, and DC did a solid comeback from there, why? Because they had two tired batters in Ayush and Sanju. I was not surprised. According to me, it was a bit late and should have been done sooner,” he added.

The former CSK spinner wants Sanju Samson to stay consistent for the next couple of games after he scored a stunning knock of 115 runs off just 56 balls.

“I just want to give Sanju one message. This is not enough. This is now two points, I don’t want 80,90 or 100 from Sanju, I don’t want that. CSK got 2 points, need two more on the 14th, and then two more points after that, that is it. His job is that. He looks switched on now. When he wins six points in three games with his bat, then I will love him, that is my wish for him,” Ashwin said.

Chennai Super Kings will next take on Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Tuesday.