Ravichandran Ashwin Clarifies Remarks on Dewald Brevis After Social Media Controversy

Ashwin Clarifies Comments on Dewald Brevis Signing

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who plays a vital role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), issued a clarification after his comments on Dewald Brevis’ acquisition created a stir on social media. The five-time champions had earlier released an official statement after Ashwin alleged that the franchise paid an “extra” amount to the South African batter, who had a base price of INR 75 lakh in the mega auction. Brevis was not picked in the auction but was later signed by CSK as an injury replacement for Gurjapneet Singh in the 2025 season.

Following the controversy, CSK clarified that due process was followed, and Brevis was signed in compliance with IPL rules. Gurjapneet was bought for INR 2.20 crore, and the same amount was paid to Brevis after the pacer was ruled out of IPL 2025.

Ashwin later explained that his statements were misconstrued. He emphasized that he had not accused anyone of wrongdoing but had merely stated facts. “I just want to say this. I focus more on cricket rather than social media chatter. On YouTube, we share our opinions, but those who don’t watch can twist statements as they like. In today’s world, even a single headline can create news,” Ashwin clarified on his channel Ash Ki Baat.

Speaking on Brevis, Ashwin praised CSK’s decision: “The way Brevis is batting, CSK has struck gold. He’s in a purple patch, hitting monstrous sixes, and proving to be a true power-striker against spin.”

Ashwin’s reaction to CSK statement

Reacting to Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) official statement, Ravichandran Ashwin said the franchise clarified the situation only because many people had doubts about Dewald Brevis’ signing price of INR 2.20 crore.

“In today’s time, there is a need to clarify the right things as well. There is no mistake by anyone; clarification on this matter has arisen from the fact that a lot of people have doubts. The fact is that no mistake has been made by the franchise, the player, or the governing body,” Ashwin explained. “When a franchise wants a player, they talk to him and his agent. The franchise then informs the BCCI about the injury and the replacement process. If anything was wrong, that player wouldn’t be allowed to play.”

Brevis, meanwhile, has been in the form of his life. The 22-year-old right-hander recently smashed his maiden T20I century against Australia in the second match of the series, followed by a half-century in the third.

Ashwin clarified that his earlier remarks were misinterpreted: “My intent in the old video was to talk about Brevis’ batting, not his IPL signing amount. Every IPL player has a binding contract with the franchise and the tournament. If there is anything wrong, it won’t be ratified. Injury replacements are very common in the IPL—it’s about how you work within the rule flexibility. If you’re a CSK or South Africa fan, you should be extremely excited about Brevis. He is a special talent.”