Ravichandran Ashwin Hails Jacob Duffy as 'Absolute Steal' for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for securing the services of New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, calling the acquisition an "absolute steal." Duffy, who was picked up at his base price, has been in sensational form internationally, recently earning the Player of the Series award in the Test series against the West Indies.

Ashwin highlighted Duffy's elite bowling metrics across formats, noting his 23 wickets at an average of 15.43 in Tests and his high T20I ranking, backed by 57 wickets at an economy rate of 7.89 in 2025. The 31-year-old quick is operating at peak efficiency, possessing the ability to generate swing with the new ball and execute useful variations at the death.

Duffy is expected to be a crucial overseas option for the defending champions, potentially partnering with Josh Hazlewood to spearhead the pace attack. His low acquisition cost relative to his current world-class form represents a significant coup for the RCB management as they prepare for the 19th installment of the league.