Rajasthan Royals (RR) had roped in veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin during the IPL 2022 mega-auction for INR 5 crore.
It was because of the signing that Ashwin is currently sharing the dressing room with Jos Buttler at RR. Notably, the off-spinner had run out Buttler by affecting ‘Mankad’ during the IPL 2019 while playing for Punjab.
The incident had triggered a massive debate in the cricket fraternity as dismissing a batter using the method is still considered against the spirit of the game.
While the MCC has legitimised the running out of non-strikers who are backing up, Buttler still considers it unfair.
In an exclusive chat with ESPNCricinfo, Buttler was asked if he would allow Ashwin to 'Mankad' batters as Rajasthan Royals captain.
To which, the England batter replied: “No.”
Funnily, when the interviewer further asked if Ashwin would listen to him, Buttler said, “No” before bursting into laughter.
Rajasthan Royals are having a great time in the ongoing Indian Premier League. They have won four out of their six games in the IPL 2022 season so far and occupy the third spot on the points table.
One of the major reasons behind RR’s stellar showing so far is the performances of opening batter Jos Buttler and wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.
While Buttler is currently leading the highest run-getter chart with 375 runs to his name, Chahal is the leading the highest wicket-taker list with 17 scalps.
Ashwin too has played his part in the team’s success, chipping in with handy runs and important wickets during the course of quite a few matches.
