'I want to play my A-game for all franchises I play for' - Ashwin after victory against CSK

After hitting an unbeaten 40 in just 23 deliveries in their final league game of IPL 2022 against Chennai Super Kings on Friday (May 20), Rajasthan Royals player Ravichandran Ashwin praised the hard work he has put in to strengthen his batting in the shortest format of the game.

Ashwin celebrated his team's triumph over Chennai Super Kings with a couple of chest-thumps to help Rajasthan secure a top-two finish.

After taking the side beyond the finish line, Ashwin played a charged-up knock and imitated David Warner's pompous celebration. In a harrowing chase of 151, the Indian all-rounder seemed excited as he blasted three sixes and two boundaries in a superb knock. 

After the match, the 35-year-old mentioned, "I brought the David Warner inside me."

Ashwin complimented the support staff at the Royals for knowing his style and inspiring him to go the extra mile.

"I want to play my A-game for all franchises I play for. It's a mark of respect. Glad we're in the playoffs," Ashwin said.

"I have understood the game well and am innovative. I don't have enough power; credit has to go to Rajamani and Zubin Bharucha. They've understood my nature and that I don't bat the same every game. They've given me encouragement, and I've practised a lot," he added.

The inaugural champions acquired the off-spinner from the marquee list at the IPL 2022 auction, and he has been a valuable contributor with the bat. On a couple of instances, RR have deployed Ashwin at No. 3, and the all-rounder has delivered. 

Ashwin has a strike rate of over 146.40 in 14 games, which is significantly higher than his career strike rate of 118.33.

Captain Sanju Samson also lauded Ashwin, saying the off-time pre-season spinner's efforts are paying off for him and the team.

"Ashwin has done a great job and has turned out to be a great all-rounder for us. He batted a lot in the nets before the season," Samson said.

Rajasthan will face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday (May 24) at the Eden Gardens. While Eliminator will be in between Lucknow and Bangalore at the same venue on Wednesday (May 25).