Ashwin questions rise of fan groups in Indian cricket
India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on March 18 criticized the rise of “fan armies” in Indian cricket, warning that the growing social media culture is harming the sport by shifting focus from team performance to individual stardom.
Ashwin said online narratives around players are often exaggerated and not always organic, creating a toxic environment. The veteran off-spinner believes this trend fuels unnecessary divisions among fans and distorts how performances are judged.
“This is becoming a disease in Indian cricket,” Ashwin said. “The focus is moving away from the game to individuals.”
He added that some of these fan-driven narratives are “not entirely real” and may be amplified artificially, increasing pressure on players.
A former India teammate echoed the concern, noting: “Social media has changed how players are perceived, sometimes unfairly.”
An analyst also warned: “When personality overtakes performance, it can damage team culture.”
Ashwin, one of India’s most experienced cricketers, has played over 700 international wickets, and his comments come amid growing debate over the impact of digital fan culture on modern cricket.