Ravichandran Ashwin Gets a Chennai Street Named After Him Ahead of IPL 2025 and CSK Return

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Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is set to receive a unique honour, as a road near his residence in Chennai will be named after him.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has approved the renaming of Ramakrishnapuram 1st Street in West Mambalam as Ravichandran Ashwin Road, in recognition of the legendary off-spinner’s contribution to Indian cricket.

Chennai Pays Tribute to Ashwin

Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, has been a stalwart in Indian cricket. He ended his Test career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker, with 537 dismissals in 106 matches, only behind Anil Kumble’s 619 wickets.

The renaming proposal was initiated by Carrom Ball Event and Marketing Company Private Limited, a firm owned by Ashwin. The initial request suggested renaming either Arya Gowda Road or the street near his residence. After due consideration, the GCC approved the renaming of Ramakrishnapuram 1st Street, and an official ceremony is expected to take place soon.

Sharing the news on X (formerly Twitter), senior journalist Venkata Krishna B wrote: "Ramakrishnapuram 1st Street in West Mambalam to be renamed as Ravichandran Ashwin Road. Ashwin can now walk out of his house and say, 'I have the street.’” This comment humorously references the title of Ashwin’s autobiography, I Have the Streets, which was co-authored with a leading journalist and released in June 2024.

Reuniting with CSK for IPL 2025

Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a decade adds to the significance of this moment. The off-spinner, who began his Indian Premier League (IPL) journey with CSK in 2009, was reacquired by the franchise for ₹9.75 crore in the 2025 IPL auction.

Having played for multiple teams, including Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin’s return to CSK has delighted fans. His familiarity with Chennai conditions makes him a vital asset for the side, which will be led by Ruturaj Gaikwad in the upcoming season.

Ashwin’s IPL career spans 212 matches, where he has taken 180 wickets at an economy rate of 7.12. During his earlier stint with CSK (2009-2015), he was a key player in their 2010 and 2011 title-winning campaigns under MS Dhoni. He remains the franchise’s third-highest wicket-taker, with 120 dismissals, trailing only Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo.

A Grand Homecoming on March 23

The veteran spinner will don the CSK jersey once again when the team faces Mumbai Indians in their IPL 2025 opener on 23rd March at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. This match will mark his first appearance for CSK since 2015, making it a highly anticipated moment for Chennai fans.

Apart from his bowling prowess, Ashwin has also contributed with the bat, scoring 190 runs in 31 innings at a strike rate of 94, with a highest score of 23. His sharp fielding skills have also been an asset, as he has taken 20 catches in the tournament.

As Ashwin prepares for his IPL return, the renaming of a Chennai street in his honour is a testament to his legacy. From troubling the world’s best batsmen to now having a road named after him, the journey of the Tamil Nadu-born cricketer is truly remarkable.