Ravichandran Ashwin Defends Mankad Stance and ICC Rules

The Persistent Debate: Ashwin on the Mankad

In the world of cricket, few topics ignite as much debate as the non-striker’s run-out, commonly referred to as the ‘Mankad’. Former Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been at the center of this firestorm for years, has reiterated his unapologetic stance on the dismissal. For Ashwin, the debate is not about ‘character’ or the ‘spirit of the game,’ but about the fundamental laws that govern the sport.

What is the Mankad Dismissal?

The act, named after legendary Indian all-rounder Vinoo Mankad—who famously dismissed Australia’s Bill Brown in 1948—involves a bowler running out a batter at the non-striker’s end before delivering the ball. The batter, in these instances, has typically left their crease prematurely, attempting to gain a split-second advantage.

For decades, this method was shrouded in controversy. Critics often labeled it ‘underhanded’ or insisted that a bowler should provide a warning first. However, proponents like Ashwin argue that the only unfair action occurring is the non-striker attempting to steal runs, which can prove decisive in tight matches.

Validating the Rules

The status of the Mankad changed significantly in October 2022, when the MCC—the guardians of cricket laws—reclassified the act from ‘Unfair Play’ to a standard run-out. Ashwin, speaking on JioHotstar, pointed out that this shift confirms his perspective: ‘If the ICC felt this was an honesty problem, they wouldn’t keep it in the rules.’

Ashwin recalled his own experiences, including the infamous 2019 IPL incident where he dismissed Rajasthan Royals’ Jos Buttler. While the media and fans were quick to criticize the move, Ashwin maintains that his actions were purely competitive. ‘People say I did it to win. Of course, I did it to win,’ he stated. He emphasized that during that match, he encouraged his teammates not to worry about public perception, as their primary goal was to secure a victory.

Looking Back at Past Incidents

The Buttler incident was not an isolated event in the history of the game. Sachitra Senanayake dismissed Buttler in 2014, and Ashwin himself had attempted the move in 2012 against Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Thirimanne, though the then-captain Virender Sehwag famously chose to withdraw the appeal. These historical moments highlight how the perception of the Mankad has fluctuated, yet Ashwin remains one of the few players willing to stand by the legality of the rule regardless of the backlash.

Ashwin’s Post-Retirement Journey

Outside of these debates, Ravichandran Ashwin has transitioned into a new phase of his career. Having retired from international cricket in 2024 and the IPL in 2025, he has become a prominent voice in cricket commentary, known for his analytical depth and sharp insights. His commentary work during the 2026 IPL season has been widely celebrated by fans.

Moving forward, the veteran off-spinner is set to expand his footprint in global T20 leagues. Fans can look forward to seeing Ashwin in action for the San Francisco Unicorns in the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) season. As he shifts his focus to new global stages, his legacy as both a master tactician and a player who refuses to shy away from difficult conversations remains intact.

Final Thoughts on Cricket’s Ethics

Ashwin’s refusal to apologize for the Mankad is a testament to his analytical approach to the game. By stripping away the emotional baggage and focusing on the black-and-white nature of the rulebook, he challenges the traditional narrative of cricket’s ‘spirit.’ Whether one agrees with him or not, his impact on the game and the discourse surrounding it is undeniable.