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Ashwin Urges CSK to Unleash Sarfaraz Khan's Purple Patch in IPL 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly advocated for Chennai Super Kings to include the in-form Sarfaraz Khan in their Playing XII for IPL 2026. Ashwin highlighted Khan's staggering domestic performances, including a 157-run blitz in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and a high-strike-rate campaign in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He specifically praised Khan's ability to dominate spin bowling in the middle overs with aggressive sweeps. Following this form, CSK secured Khan for Rs 75 lakh at the recent mini-auction, adding to their batting riches for the upcoming season.

Key Points: Ashwin: CSK Must Play In-Form Sarfaraz Khan in IPL 2026

  • Explosive domestic form
  • Spin-dominant power-hitter
  • CSK auction pick
  • Ashwin's strong endorsement
  • IPL 2026 anticipation
2 min read

"CSK should look at riding his purple patch by slotting him into Playing XII": Ashwin on Sarfaraz Khan's incredible form in domestic cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin backs Sarfaraz Khan for CSK's Playing XII after his explosive domestic form, citing his power-hitting and spin dominance.

"He is not knocking on the door, he is breaking it open. - Ravichandran Ashwin"

New Delhi, December 31

As Sarfaraz Khan continues his incredible form in domestic cricket, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin backed him to become a regular batter for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2026.

This comes after Sarfaraz smashed 157 off 75 balls against Goa in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT), including nine boundaries and 14 sixes, showcasing his power-hitting abilities.

Sarfaraz played a breathtaking knock, reaching his century in just 56 balls. Ashwin also pointed out Sarfaraz's scores in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he slammed 329 runs in seven matches with a strike-rate of 203.08 and an average of 65.80.

In an X post Ashwin wrote, "100*(47), 52(40), 64(25), 73(22) in the SMAT. That form's transitioned seamlessly into the Hazare with scores of 55(49) followed by a blistering 157(75) today with 14 sixes. It's particularly impressive how he murders spin in the middle overs with his sweeps and slog sweeps. 'Avan kadhava thattala, idichi odachitu irukaan.' ( He is not knocking on the door, he is breaking it open ) CSK should look at riding his purple patch by slotting him into the Playing XII surely? A genuine problem of plenty with the bat for the men in yellow this season! Can't wait for IPL 2026."

After his successful outing in SMAT, five-time IPL winner CSK bagged the right-hand batter from Rs 75 lakh at the IPL 2026 mini-auction earlier this month.

Chennai Super Kings Squad: Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Urvil Patel, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Jamie Overton, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmad, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Shivam Dube, Shreyas Gopal, Khaleel Ahmed, Sanju Samson Akeal Hosein, Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Matthew Short, Aman Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Matt Henry, Rahul Chahar, Zak Foulkes.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While his form is undeniable, I hope this doesn't create too much pressure on him. The jump from domestic to IPL is huge. Thala's guidance will be key. Wishing him the best! 💛
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Vikram M
Finally getting the recognition he deserves! His sweep shots are a treat to watch. CSK bought him for a steal at 75 lakh. This could be the breakout season for him. Whistle Podu!
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Rohit P
Respectfully, I have to disagree with Ashwin here. CSK already has a settled core. Where does he fit? Ruturaj, Conway, Dube, Mitchell, Jadeja... it's a problem of plenty. He might warm the bench, which is a shame for his form.
S
Sarah B
The stats are unbelievable! A strike rate over 200 in T20s and now this 157. He's not just hitting, he's dominating. CSK's management is brilliant at nurturing talent. Perfect match.
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Nikhil C
Ashwin's Tamil line was perfect 😂 "Breaking the door open" indeed! This is what happens when you back domestic performers. Hope other teams also take note. IPL 2026 is looking exciting already!

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