Ashwin Advocates for IPL Pay Cuts Based on Bowling Performance
In a bold statement ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested that franchises should have the authority to deduct money from players' contracts if they fail to deliver as expected, particularly with the ball. His comments specifically target Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who was acquired by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering Rs 25.20 crores.
Focus on Cameron Green's Recent Form and Workload
Cameron Green, a marquee buy for KKR, has been under scrutiny due to his recent performances. During the T20 World Cup, he managed only 24 runs in three innings and bowled just three overs across two games, securing one wicket. In the preceding Pakistan T20Is, he bowled four overs over two matches, taking a single wicket. His form in the 2025/26 Ashes was also lackluster, with only four wickets from 61.5 overs and an average of 70.75. Notably, in a recent Sheffield Shield match for Western Australia against New South Wales, Green scored a century but did not bowl a single over, raising questions about his bowling workload.
Ashwin highlighted these concerns on his YouTube channel, stating, "There is a question about Cameron Green. Will Cricket Australia allow him to bowl all four overs? That is also a possibility. In this scenario, the Australian board is saying to Green that he can play in the IPL, but Test cricket is very important for us, so you can play only this much of workload."
Ashwin's Proposal for IPL Teams
Ashwin argued that IPL teams should be empowered to adjust player payments based on performance. He elaborated, "IPL teams also should have an opportunity where if he bowls only two overs, then they should deduct 2 crores. Why not? If he is not able to deliver his four overs, then you should have the right to cut their money, right? When you came into the IPL auction, the expectation was that you would bowl all four overs, and also bat. If there is no restriction on bowling, then great, but if there is restriction, the team should be allowed to cut from the contract money."
To illustrate his point, Ashwin added, "Imagine if you are Shah Rukh Khan, and you have paid 25 crores for a player. But then he comes and says that, 'Sir, I will bowl only one over today, or bowl only 10 balls a day'. How will you feel?" This analogy underscores the financial stakes involved for franchises like KKR, who are banking on Green's all-round abilities.
Implications for IPL 2026 and Beyond
As KKR prepares to start their IPL 2026 campaign against the Mumbai Indians on March 29 in Mumbai, all eyes will be on Cameron Green. His ability to bowl his full quota of overs could be crucial for the team's strategy and success. Ashwin's proposal sparks a broader debate about player contracts and performance-based incentives in the IPL, potentially influencing future auction strategies and team management decisions.
This discussion comes at a time when player workload management is increasingly important, with national boards like Cricket Australia often imposing restrictions to protect key players for international duties. Ashwin's comments highlight the tension between franchise commitments and national team priorities, urging IPL teams to seek more accountability from high-value signings.
