Ravichandran Ashwin calls out Cheteshwar Pujara for not saluting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Hilarious Banter with Cheteshwar Pujara Goes Viral
Former Team India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently took to social media to playfully troll his ex-teammate Cheteshwar Pujara. The banter ensued after a memorable moment during the IPL 2026 match between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians, where Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased an exceptional display of power-hitting.
The Epic Salute Incident
The incident that sparked the hilarious exchange between Ashwin and Pujara occurred when Harbhajan Singh, standing in the commentary box, saluted the young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his outstanding performance in the match. The video of this gesture was shared by Star Sports India, catching the attention of Ashwin.
In the video, Pujara, who was sitting beside Harbhajan in the studio, could be seen smiling awkwardly and not delivering a proper salute like his co-commentator. This prompted Ashwin to humorously call out Pujara on social media, stating, “Mera bhi salute, but my dear friend Pujara didn’t salute properly,” accompanied by laughing emojis.
Impressive Performance by Rajasthan Royals
Sooryavanshi and Jaiswal’s aggressive batting helped Rajasthan Royals set a formidable total of 150 runs in just 11 overs. They recorded a joint second-fastest team fifty in IPL history, with Sooryavanshi impressing by targeting ace bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.
Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach saw him scoring 39 off just 14 balls before being dismissed, while Jaiswal continued the onslaught, finishing unbeaten on 77 off 32 deliveries. The duo’s outstanding partnership laid the foundation for Rajasthan Royals’ victory against Mumbai Indians.
Rajasthan Royals Secure Victory
In response, Mumbai Indians managed to score 123 runs in their allotted overs, falling short of the target set by Rajasthan Royals. This defeat marked Mumbai Indians’ second consecutive loss in the ongoing tournament, while Rajasthan Royals celebrated a well-deserved triumph.
The match not only showcased the young talent of players like Sooryavanshi and Jaiswal but also provided fans with an entertaining moment of banter between former Indian cricketers Ashwin and Pujara. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await more exciting moments and outstanding performances as the IPL 2026 season progresses.
Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling encounters in the world of cricket!
Impact of Banter in Cricket
The banter between Ravichandran Ashwin and Cheteshwar Pujara not only entertained fans but also highlighted the camaraderie and friendly relationships that exist among cricketers. Such light-hearted exchanges add a human touch to the game, showing that even elite athletes can have fun and share jokes with each other off the field.
Cricket has a long history of playful banter and sledging, where players engage in verbal sparring to unsettle their opponents. While some may see it as a way to psych out the opposition, in this case, Ashwin’s teasing of Pujara was all in good fun and received positively by fans.
Emerging Talent in IPL 2026
The IPL has been a platform for young talents like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal to showcase their skills on a global stage. Their aggressive batting in the match against Mumbai Indians demonstrated the fearless mindset and talent that young Indian cricketers possess. It also serves as a reminder of the depth of talent in Indian cricket and the bright future that lies ahead for the sport in the country.
With each season, the IPL continues to unearth new stars and provide opportunities for emerging players to shine. The league’s competitive environment pushes players to perform at their best and allows them to gain invaluable experience by playing alongside and against some of the best in the world.
Predictions for IPL 2026
As the IPL 2026 season progresses, fans and experts alike are making predictions about which teams will dominate the tournament and which players will stand out. The performance of teams like Rajasthan Royals, who have started the season strong, has sparked discussions about their potential to go all the way and lift the trophy this year.
Players like Sooryavanshi and Jaiswal, who have already made an impact early in the season, are being closely watched as they continue to impress with their skills and potential. Their performances have raised expectations and added excitement to the tournament, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans and followers of the game.
Looking Ahead
As the IPL 2026 season unfolds, cricket enthusiasts can expect more exciting moments, impressive performances, and perhaps even more banter between players. The league’s unique mix of established stars, emerging talents, and intense competition makes it a must-watch for fans of the sport.
Stay tuned for updates, analysis, and highlights as the IPL 2026 season promises to deliver thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments on the cricket field.
Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of cricketing action!


