Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has spoken out against the growing trend of superstar culture within Indian cricket. Emphasizing the need for players to be viewed as sportspersons rather than super celebrities, Ashwin called for a shift towards normalizing achievements in cricket.

His comments were made on his Hindi YouTube channel, "Ash ki Baat." Ashwin emphasized the importance of players remaining relatable to common people, urging Indian cricket to move away from the perception of cricketers as larger-than-life figures.

He stated, "It is important to normalise things in Indian cricket.

We must not encourage this superstardom and super celebrities within the Indian cricket team" (Ash ki Baat). He stressed that cricketers are sportspersons and should be seen as individuals the public can relate to.

That's to be done rather than as untouchable superstars. The former spinner highlighted the importance of maintaining a grounded perspective, even for the most successful players.

Referring to modern-day icons, Ashwin said, "For example, if you are a Rohit Sharma or a Virat Kohli, who have achieved so much. When you hit one more century, it is not just about your achievement anymore.

It should be business as usual, and our goals should be bigger than these achievements."

Call for Cultural Change in Indian Cricket

Indian cricket has long been associated with a culture of hero worship, with fans treating top cricketers as demi-gods. Ashwin argued that such a culture alienates players from the common man, creating an unnecessary divide.

He stressed the need to "normalise all these things going forward" to make cricket more inclusive and relatable. Ashwin's views come at a time when Indian cricket continues to enjoy massive popularity.

The players enjoy celebrity status akin to Bollywood actors. He argued that cricketers should focus on their roles as sportspersons and inspire fans through their performances, rather than fostering a superstar image.The players enjoy celebrity status akin to Bollywood actors. He argued that cricketers should focus on their roles as sportspersons and inspire fans through their performances, rather than fostering a superstar image.