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

On August 27, 2025, R Ashwin ended his 16-season career in the Indian Premier League, announcing his retirement from the tournament. Over the years, Ashwin has created many memorable moments, with the non-striker run out of Jos Buttler in IPL 2019 standing out as the most famous.

In that match, Rajasthan Royals were chasing 185 and were in a strong position, scoring 105 for one after 12 overs. Buttler had already made 69 runs, including 10 fours and 2 sixes. The controversy happened on the fourth ball of the 13th over when Ashwin dismissed Buttler for backing up too far at the non-striker’s end.

Ashwin quickly removed the bails and appealed to the on-field umpire, who referred the decision to the third umpire. The ruling went in favor of Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), leaving Buttler angry and shocked as he walked back to the pavilion. Punjab Kings eventually won the match by 14 runs.

When the incident happened, social media erupted. Some criticized Ashwin, saying it went against the spirit of cricket, while others defended him, noting it was fully within the rules. Ashwin later explained that his action was legal and said he would do the same again if given the chance.

Looking at his IPL career, Ashwin played 221 matches and took 187 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Besides his bowling achievements, he also scored 833 runs in the tournament, including a half-century.