Ashwin’s YouTube Channel to Halt CSK Coverage Amid Social Media Backlash

After criticism of CSK player selection by a guest analyst went viral, R Ashwin’s channel suspends all Chennai Super Kings-related content for the rest of IPL 2025.

New Delhi, April 7: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) content — including match previews and reviews — will no longer be featured on R Ashwin’s YouTube channel for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season, following a controversy sparked by remarks made by a guest analyst criticizing CSK’s player selections.

The decision comes in the wake of sharp social media backlash after Prasanna Agoram, a regular guest on the channel and a former data analyst for South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), questioned the inclusion of Afghanistan wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad in the playing XI. He suggested CSK would have been better served by picking an additional batter over a third spinner, despite Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja already being part of the squad.

The video in question was later taken down after going viral, coinciding with a string of disappointing CSK performances — including their first home loss to RCB since 2008 and first defeat to Delhi Capitals at Chepauk since 2010. CSK currently sits ninth in the points table with just one win from four games.

Ironically, Noor Ahmad — the player at the center of the debate — has emerged as Purple Cap holder, leading the tournament with 10 wickets in four matches, while Ashwin and Jadeja have taken only four wickets between them in eight innings.

An official statement from Ashwin’s YouTube channel clarified their stance:

“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. 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.”

The announcement underscores the sensitivity surrounding commentary on active players and teams, especially when it involves individuals with direct ties to franchises.

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals — the team that recently defeated CSK in Chennai — continue their unbeaten run with three wins in three games, sitting comfortably at the top of the IPL 2025 table.