Flashback: R Ashwin’s Controversial Non-Striker Run Out of Jos Buttler in IPL 2019

On August 27, 2025, Ravichandran Ashwin officially ended his remarkable 16-season journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL), bringing down the curtain on one of the most impactful careers in the tournament’s history. Over the years, Ashwin has given cricket fans countless memorable moments, but one incident that continues to be discussed even today is his controversial dismissal of Jos Buttler at the non-striker’s end during IPL 2019. That single event sparked a heated debate about the spirit of the game versus the laws of cricket and has since become one of the most iconic moments in IPL history.

The match in question took place between Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) and Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur. Rajasthan was chasing a target of 185 and seemed well on track for victory, cruising at 105 for one in 12 overs. At the crease was Jos Buttler, playing an explosive innings of 69 runs, which included 10 fours and 2 sixes. His form was threatening to take the game away from Punjab, and Ashwin, then the captain of the team, made a bold decision that would change the course of the match and spark endless debates. On the fourth delivery of the 13th over, as Ashwin approached to bowl, he noticed Buttler backing up too far at the non-striker’s end. Without completing his delivery, Ashwin calmly removed the bails and appealed for a run out.

The appeal was immediately referred to the third umpire, and after careful review, the decision was given in favor of Ashwin and Punjab. Buttler, visibly frustrated, walked back to the pavilion in disbelief. The dismissal broke Rajasthan’s momentum, and Punjab eventually went on to win the game by 14 runs. While the dismissal was perfectly within the laws of cricket, it ignited a storm across social media and the cricket fraternity. Many argued that Ashwin’s actions violated the spirit of cricket, while others came to his defense, pointing out that Buttler had been warned before and that the rules clearly allowed the bowler to dismiss a batsman in such a manner.

Ashwin himself addressed the incident soon after, standing firmly by his decision. He made it clear that the dismissal was well within the rules and said he would not hesitate to do it again if the same situation arose. His firm stance highlighted his strong belief in upholding the laws of the game, even if it meant inviting criticism. Over time, the debate around that dismissal became larger than the incident itself, turning into a wider discussion about fairness, sportsmanship, and the balance between law and spirit in cricket.

Beyond this moment of controversy, Ashwin’s IPL career is filled with achievements that underline his status as one of the tournament’s greatest spinners. Across 221 matches, he picked up 187 wickets with an outstanding economy rate of 7.20, making him one of the most consistent and reliable bowlers in the league’s history. His ability to bowl in the powerplay, middle overs, and even in high-pressure death overs showcased his versatility and cricketing intelligence. In addition to his bowling, Ashwin also made valuable contributions with the bat, scoring 833 runs, including a well-crafted half-century. These performances made him not just a specialist bowler but also a dependable all-round contributor for whichever team he represented.

Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL marks the end of an era. His legacy is not only defined by the wickets he took or the runs he scored but also by the boldness with which he played the game. The run out of Buttler in 2019 may remain his most talked-about moment, but it also symbolizes the fearless approach he carried throughout his career—always ready to challenge conventions and never afraid of criticism. For fans, teammates, and critics alike, Ashwin’s time in the IPL will always be remembered as that of a cricketer who left a lasting mark on the game.