If Universe Boss Chris Gayle is at a striker end, he can become a bad dream for any bowler at any time. How devastating this left -handed batsman bats, world cricket was gauged in 2013, when this batsman scored his century on just 30 balls. However, according to Krishnamachari Srikanth, former captain of the Indian team, even though Gayle was an explosive bat, he was under pressure while facing R Ashwin.
Gayle’s legs tremble against Ashwin
Speaking during a book release program in Chennai, Srikanth said that Gayle can hit any bowler fours and sixes, but when Ashwin has a ball in his hand, his legs would tremble. According to Hindustan Times, Srikanth said, “Chris Gayle could have hit anyone and a four, but Ashwin needed only four balls to dismiss him. When Ashwin had a ball in his hand, Gayle’s feet would tremble.”
Ashwin’s record against the former West Indies opener is excellent. Ashwin has dismissed Gayle five times in the IPL. Chris Gayle has scored only 53 runs in Ashwin’s 64 balls in IPL at a low strike rate of 82.8. Chris Gayle, who hit a long sixes, has been successful in hitting only three sixes on Ashwin in eight years.
Dhoni recognizes Ashwin’s talent
Srikanth praised MS Dhoni for recognizing Ashwin’s talent and making him a bowler, who performed well in all the formats of the game. He appreciated Ashwin’s journey from a young cricketer in Tamil Nadu to playing more than 100 Tests and taking more than 500 Test wickets for India.
Srikanth said, “The person who recognized him as a great T20 bowler, he was Dhoni. Ashwin has developed a wonderful manner in T20 and in a wonderful manner. He is not only a good bowler, but also a great batsman.”
Ashwin is ready to return to CSK after 10 years. Chennai Super Kings bought experienced all -rounder for 9.75 crores in mega auction. Srikanth welcomed Ashwin to CSK before the 2025 season.
CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan also recalled about Ashwin, saying, “When we first met Ashwin, he was playing Ranji for Tamil Nadu in the early 2000s (he made his first -class debut in 2006). I was involved in TNCA administration at the time. We had a good friendship during the 2009 IPL in South Africa.”
Let me tell you, five -time IPL champion Chennai Super Kings will start their campaign against arch -rivals and five -time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) in the home ground of Chepock Stadium on 23 March.
Also read: IPL 2025: IPL opening ceremony will be very special, not one or two but will be organized in these 13 places, BCCI gave big gift to fans
Also read: Virat Kohli raised questions, BCCI hit ‘U-turn’, big update about family rule