R Ashwin - (Source: AFP)
The fourth edition of Major League Cricket (MLC) is underway, and every team except MI New York have started their campaign. Eyes were on R Ashwin, who was all set to become the 1st India capped star to play in America when he signed up for San Francisco Unicorns.
However, that has to wait a little because the former CSK spinner was left out of the playing XI for San Francisco’s playing XI for their match against the LA Knight Riders. The fans were surprised not to see the star player in action since he was taking an active part in the training and looked in great shape ahead of his teams’ MLC opener match.
Therefore, this article will shed light on the reason why R Ashwin didn’t play against the LA Knight Riders.
Why Didn’t R Ashwin Play Against LA Knight Riders?
Notably, after the match concluded, A Unicorn team official spoke to the press, where he confirmed that it was a tactical decision and the franchise is looking after the 39-year-old’s workload. The official emphasised that San Francisco has two matches on consecutive days, which is why the Matthew Short-led side benched and rested the India legend.
The Unicorns will face the Texas Super Kings on Sunday, June 21, which starts at 2:00 am IST. Therefore, it is likely that the off-spinner makes his MLC debut against his former side’s sister franchise.
Unicorns Chase First MLC Title With R Ashwin
Further, the Unicorns need to play with Ashwin’s experience against TSK, because they have got off on a losing note in the MLC. Talking about the recently concluded rain-reduced match, TSK, batting first, put 150 runs on the board in 14 overs.
Also Read: Faf Du Plessis Hints At CSK Return Right After Smashing Majestic MLC Century
In reply, LA Knight Riders chased down the total with three balls remaining and 7 wickets in hand. For the unversed, the Unicorns have never won the MLC title, and they are chasing the dream with Ashwin on their side, because the spinner won several accolades with the Chennai Super Kings in IPL.
R Ashwin Yet To Play Competitive Cricket Since July 2025
The last couple of years have been quite difficult for R Ashwin. The 39-year-old announced his retirement on December 18 2024, during the 3rd Test between India and Australia to focus on franchise cricket. Eventually, he had a poor IPL 2025 and announced his retirement there as well to try overseas leagues.
Talking about his numbers then the 39-year-old played just 9 matches in IPL 2025, where he picked up 5 wickets and bowled with an economy of 9.13, which hurt CSK. Following IPL, TNPL was Ashwin’s last stint, where he took 13 wickets.
Notably, the right-arm spinner had also signed up for the BBL, but pulled out at the last minute because of injury. Hence, there are doubts over the 39-year-old because he has been out of competitive cricket for nearly a year now.
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