Ravi Ashwin calls for an end to ‘Superstar Culture’ in Team India

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked fresh debate by calling for an end to the "superstar culture" in Indian cricket. His remarks, made on his Hindi YouTube channel "Ash Ki Baat," have raised eyebrows, especially as they coincided with the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) recent policy changes regarding player privileges.

The Indian cricket dressing room has been under scrutiny lately, with reports emerging about players traveling separately, excessive luggage charges covered by the BCCI, and preferential treatment for certain individuals. These revelations, which surfaced after India’s disappointing performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, prompted the BCCI to introduce stricter regulations. Families will no longer be allowed to stay with players on tours lasting less than 45 days, and personal staff—such as chefs and agents—must stay in separate hotels.

Amid this, Ashwin voiced his concern over the growing culture of idolizing certain players within the team. "It is important to normalize things in Indian cricket. We must not encourage this superstardom and super celebrities within the Indian cricket team," Ashwin stated in his video. He emphasized that cricketers should be seen as athletes rather than larger-than-life figures, urging a shift in perspective where players are relatable to the common man rather than being treated as untouchable icons.

"Take Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli, for example—they have achieved so much. But when they score another century, it should not be about their individual greatness alone. It should be business as usual, and our goals should be bigger than personal records," he added.

Is Ravi Ashwin taking a dig at Rohit and Kohli?

Ashwin’s comments, particularly his reference to Kohli and Rohit, have led to speculation that he was indirectly targeting them. While he acknowledged their contributions to Indian cricket, his repeated emphasis on downplaying individual achievements suggests he may be advocating for a stronger focus on collective team goals rather than personal milestones.

Rather than being a direct criticism, Ashwin’s remarks seem to encourage a balanced approach, reminding everyone that cricket is a team sport where success should be measured beyond personal records. Whether his words will spark change within the Indian cricket team remains to be seen, but they have certainly ignited a new discussion on the culture within the squad.

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