Former India spinner and CSK cricketer R Ashwin hasn’t had a very good IPL 2025 for the yellow franchise. For the first time in the tournament's eighteen-year existence, the five-time champions CSK placed last in the points standings.

Due to his subpar performance, Ashwin, who was acquired by the team for INR 9.75 crore in the super auction, was dropped by the team in the middle of the 14-match season.

Tuesday's YouTube live session was hosted by the former India off-spinner, who now holds the second-highest wicket-taking record for India in Test matches. He and two other panelists talked about the current IPL session.

A CSK supporter voiced dissatisfaction with Ashwin's tournament performances throughout the telecast and asked him to leave the CSK family.

In the comments section, the fan wrote, “Hi dear Ashwin, with lots of love, please leave my lovely CSK family.”

In response to the fan, Ashwin did not allow the remark to go unanswered. He stated that while he acknowledges that his IPL 2025 performances fell short of expectations, franchise supporters must realize that he is looking out for the team's best interests.

He also promised to return stronger because he is aware of his areas for improvement to perform better in the IPL.

"One thing that I can relate to is his love for the franchise. Let's not make one mistake. When you say something, please make sure that you're doing it in your best interest. I understand what you're trying to say. I also have the same love and interest. Don't think that I'm going to let this campaign go to waste. What I have in my controllables. If you give the ball in my hand, I will bowl, if you give the bat, then I will bat.” Ashwin said on YouTube, quoted by Hindustan Times.

"I have put in a lot of hard work, and there are areas which I can work on, which I know very clearly. In the powerplay, I have given away many runs. To bowl in the powerplay, I have to create more options next year. This is the best I can do,” he added.

Ashwin picked 7 wickets in 9 matches for CSK in IPL 2025 at an average of 40.42 and an economy of 9.12. And his performance was one of the main reasons why CSK struggled in the bowling department.

Ashwin said that he loves the franchise way more than the fans do, and this year's performance hurts him deeply.

"I have the best interest of the team, and I love the team way more than all of you. I was with the team in 2009 and 2010. I have played for 7 years. I have qualified with CSK for the playoffs in the past. I have won the title. So, when I see a champion like this, I feel sad for the first time. I feel sad about that. That's why I'm sitting in a corner and crying. What to do next? This is my goal," he added.

It remains to be seen whether R Ashwin is retained by the CSK franchise for the next IPL in 2026.