“CSK Should Ride His Purple Patch”- R Ashwin Backs Sarfaraz Khan Ahead Of IPL 2026

Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly advocated for Chennai Super Kings to make full use of an in-form Sarfaraz Khan in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season. CSK secured the Mumbai batter for ₹75 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction, and Ashwin believes the franchise should capitalise on Sarfaraz’s current run-scoring spree rather than letting it pass by.

Sarfaraz recently delivered one of the most explosive innings of the domestic season during Mumbai’s Vijay Hazare Trophy clash against Goa. The right-hander hammered 157 runs off just 75 balls, laced with 14 sixes and nine fours, propelling Mumbai to a staggering total of 444/8 in their 50 overs. The knock further underlined his rich vein of form across formats.

Ashwin’s Glowing Words On Sarfaraz’s Form

Impressed by the consistency and aggression Sarfaraz has shown over the past few months, Ashwin took to social media to heap praise on the 28-year-old. Highlighting his performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Ashwin wrote:

“100 (47), 52(40), 64(25), 73(22) in the SMAT. That form’s transitioned seamlessly into the Hazare with scores of 55(49) followed by a blistering 157(75) today with 14 sixes. It’s particularly impressive how he murders spin in the middle overs with his sweeps and slog sweeps. Avan kadhava thattala, idichi odachitu irukaan. ( He is not knocking on the door, he is breaking it open). CSK should look at riding his purple patch by slotting him into the Playing XII, surely? A genuine problem of plenty with the bat for the men in yellove this season! Can’t wait for IPL 2026!”