"Probably the next generation Andre Russell" - Ravichandran Ashwin's big claim on RCB star ahead of IPL 2026

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has tipped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star Romario Shepherd to become the next Andre Russell ahead of IPL 2026. Ashwin reckons Shepherd's and Tim David's presence gives Virat Kohli the freedom to bat the way he wants.

Shepherd, David and Kohli were amongst the core retained by RCB ahead of IPL 2026 auction. Having been bought for ₹1.50 crore in the auction, the West Indian showcased his power-hitting skills against the Super Kings, hammering 53 off only 14 deliveries. He also picked up six scalps in eight games at 25.16.

Speaking in the latest video on his YouTube channel, Ashwin observed that Shepherd played quite well in the recent series against New Zealand and can be RCB's future too.

"RCB have caught Tim David at his peak, and Romario Shepherd is also getting there. Shepherd was in his elements against New Zealand recently, his bowling is also getting better now. You are probably talking about the next generation's Andre Russell. RCB have taken them both, and have the power in the end. So, Virat Kohli can take all the time that he needs. If he scores 80 off 50, even then RCB are in a great position."

The Royal Challengers, captained by Rajat Patidar, clinched their maiden title this year after defeating the Punjab Kings by six runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The defending champions will hope that the core retained by them will serve the franchise for another season.

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"RCB can maybe look for some fast bowling back-ups" - Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin. (Image Credits: Getty)

With the Royal Challengers releasing Lungi Ngidi and Josh Hazlewood struggling with injuries, the retired spinner reckons the defending champions must look for fast-bowling back-ups. He added:

"RCB can maybe look for some fast bowling back-ups, but they are the most settled team in the South. Their batting order is set, Virat Kohli will obviously come in with a lot of energy, a lot of fire, because he is getting a lot of breaks these days, so he will come back as a reigning champion."

The auction for IPL 2026 will take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi.

Edited by Sooryanarayanan Sesha