Ravichandran Ashwin’s post-match rant has sent shockwaves through Indian cricket circles after the team’s humiliating 76-run loss to South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2026. The seasoned bowler didn’t mince words on his popular YouTube show, blasting selectors for preferring Washington Sundar over the in-form Axar Patel.
While admitting the logic behind picking Sundar against left-handers, Ashwin was unequivocal in his defense of Axar. ‘Axar has been your go-to player in T20s. Whatever he’s achieved for India can’t be ignored,’ he stated firmly. Ashwin delved into specifics, reminiscing about Axar’s heroics in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, where his partnership with Virat Kohli stabilized the chase against South Africa in tough conditions.
‘If we had wickets in hand and middle-over solidity, we could’ve chased it down,’ Ashwin reflected. He also took aim at the batting lineup, slamming the placement of dynamic finisher Rinku Singh at number 8. ‘With eight batsmen, how is Rinku at 8? This isn’t the spot for him,’ he fumed.
Ashwin wrapped up by emphasizing preparation. ‘South Africa showed us that half-baked plans don’t work on the big stage.’ His comments underscore growing concerns about India’s selection dilemmas as they gear up for redemption in the tournament.