Experienced Indian off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin Has paid an emotional tribute to the former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly guided later pretoria capitals in the finals of SA20 2026. Speaking to X on Thursday, Ashwin praised Ganguly’s inspirational leadership, and described his influence as a coach as nothing short of “intimidating” South African cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin praised the leadership of Sourav Ganguly
Ashwin’s message was more than a routine congratulatory note. It reflected his deep admiration for Ganguly’s evolution as a leader across different eras and roles. Referencing a famous comment from Ganguly in his autobiography about “causing shivers”, Ashwin cleverly linked this quote to the former skipper’s current success in SA20.
According to Ashwin, the same qualities that once shaped Indian cricket are now visible in Ganguly’s coaching tenure abroad. He highlighted how Ganguly’s leadership, long considered transformational for the Indian national side, is now extending his influence beyond the borders, helping to take the Indian coaching philosophy to the global stage.
“He once said ‘When I write my autobiography, it will create a stir’. Currently he is creating a stir in South Africa with his @PretoriaCapsSA team. His leadership has always been inspiring and as a coach it is no different.👏👏 Taking Indian coaching to the world 🔥@SGanguly99,” Ashwin written on X.
He once said, “When I write my autobiography, it will send a shudder.”
Currently, he is causing a stir in South Africa on his own. @PretoriaCapsSA Team.
His leadership has always been inspiring and as a coach it is no different.👏👏
Taking Indian coaching to the world… pic.twitter.com/YKGcRShoAz
– Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) 22 January 2026
Also read: SA20 2026 playoffs set after exciting league stage ends
From administrator to practical trainer
After serving as chairman of bcciGanguly’s decision to return to the dugout came as a surprise to many. Rather than simply remaining in administrative or advisory roles, he chose to immerse himself directly in team-building as head coach of the Pretoria Capitals for the 2026 season.
The move initially raised questions, but the results soon put any doubts to rest. Despite a challenging start at the start of the tournament, Ganguly’s calm authority and sharp cricketing instincts helped the Capitals gain momentum at the right time. Their campaign reached its peak with a spectacular seven-wicket win Sunrisers Eastern Cape In Qualifier 1, direct entry to the finals assured.
Pretoria Capitals transformed under Ganguly’s leadership
Under the leadership of Ganguly, with assistant coaches shaun pollackThe Capitals have emerged as one of the smartest sides in the competition. Observers have pointed to several defining aspects of his resurgence.
The team has adapted cleverly to the slow surfaces, using the conditions to their advantage rather than forcing an aggressive template. Young players have thrived in this environment, with confidence and clarity in roles becoming hallmarks of the Capitals’ approach. The team’s patience in difficult moments has also been praised, reflecting the trademark belief that Ganguly instilled in his teams during his playing days.
With the SA20 final set to take place on Sunday, January 25, Pretoria Capitals are heading into the title clash full of confidence. Regardless of the final result, Ganguly’s return to frontline coaching has already been vindicated.
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