NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif recently shared a fascinating anecdote from his time at the Delhi Capitals, offering a glimpse into Ravichandran Ashwin’s sharp cricketing mind during the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL) season in Dubai.
Speaking in a video on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Kaif began. “In 2020, Ashwin was in great form with the white ball. His new-ball bowling helped us get wickets in the power play. Fast forward to 2021 – the T20 World Cup was in November. There was also an IPL before that, which was in Dubai.”
During a net session, Ashwin unexpectedly paused his spell. Kaif, curious about the break, asked, “Ashwin, why aren’t you bowling?” to which Ashwin replied, “I won’t bowl.”

Kaif continued, “Ashwin notices every little detail in the game. He pointed out that Steve Smith had a camera fixed to his helmet. Smith was using the camera to record their bowling – Ashwin, Axar, and others. Ashwin immediately realised what was happening. He said, ‘This guy is recording us. I won’t bowl now.’”

Ashwin, realising the recordings could be used to analyse their techniques ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, stopped bowling and convinced Axar Patel and Amit Mishra to do the same.
“None of them bowled. Ashwin was sharp; he caught that the camera was there to record bowling techniques for analysis,” Kaif said.
Kaif, observing from the sidelines, admired Ashwin’s tactical acumen. “I couldn’t believe the presence of mind Ashwin had. That day, he showed why he’s considered one of cricket’s sharpest minds.”
Ashwin’s recently announced retirement from international cricket has brought reflections on his legacy.
With 537 wickets in 106 matches, including 115 dismissals against Australia, his ability to outwit opponents is what truly set him apart. Bought for Rs 9.75 crore, the off-spinner will once again reunite with MS Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 season.