Ravichandran Ashwin has shared a hilarious behind-the-scenes story about his former Rajasthan Royals teammate Yuzvendra Chahal—and it involves a surprising batting ambition that left Ashwin in stitches.

During a recent appearance on JioHotstar's Champions Waali Commentary, Ashwin recalled how Chahal, known primarily for his leg-spin wizardry, would frequently lobby the team management to let him open the batting in IPL matches. Yes, you read that right—the bowler who usually walks in at No. 9 or 10 wanted to face the new ball.

"Chahal once told me he used to bat during his Under-19 days and even claimed to have scored a century back then," Ashwin said with a laugh. "He said that in a high-pressure situation, if the team needs someone to step up, they should send him in. But honestly, my question is simple: 'Where is Chahal going to find the power to clear the boundary?'"

The friendly ribbing didn't stop there. Ashwin, who himself was occasionally promoted up the order during his time with the Royals, revealed that Chahal would cheekily ask him to remove his pads so he could take his place at the crease.

"We spent three seasons together at the Rajasthan Royals. I have noticed that wherever he goes, he keeps asking to open the batting," Ashwin said. "I remember padding up because RR used to send me up the order. But Chahal would walk up and tell me to take the pads off because he wanted to go out to bat instead."

Ashwin then delivered the punchline, imagining Chahal facing express pacers like Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj. "More importantly, he might end up hurting himself against that kind of pace."

It's a lighthearted reminder that even in the high-stakes world of the IPL, cricket's camaraderie and humor shine through—and that every player, no matter their role, dreams of being the hero with the bat.