Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has once again stirred social media with a cryptic post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account that simply read “Just leave it.”
The post, featuring a modified version of Nike’s iconic logo, replacing “Just Do It” with “Just Leave It” and infused with Indian tricolour stripes, has left fans puzzled over its meaning and target.
Posted just hours after India’s narrow defeat to Australia in the second ODI at Adelaide, Ashwin’s message quickly went viral, triggering theories about who it was meant for.
Did Ashwin target Virat Kohli?
Many speculated that the off-spinner was indirectly addressing Virat Kohli, who endured a torrid run in the ongoing series, recording back-to-back ducks, a first in his ODI career. Kohli’s emotional wave to the Adelaide crowd after his dismissal had already sparked retirement rumours, adding to the drama surrounding Ashwin’s post.
Some fans believe the message could have been words of advice aimed at Kohli, perhaps suggesting that the veteran batter should consider stepping away from ODIs after his struggles. Others interpreted the phrase differently, a lighter, humorous take telling over-critical fans or media to “just leave it” instead of adding fuel to speculation.
Is it for Gautam Gambhir?
Interestingly, a few voices on social media floated the idea that Ashwin’s post may have been directed towards head coach Gautam Gambhir, who has faced criticism over India’s team selection, particularly the omission of Kuldeep Yadav in key games. The ambiguity around the post has turned it into one of Indian cricket’s hottest talking points this week.
Ashwin has remained silent since the post went live, offering no clarification. This is not the first time he has left fans decoding his online messages, the cricketer, now known for his candid social commentary, often uses satire and indirect expression to comment on current cricketing affairs.