Not too long ago Indian ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin delivered a 'shocking' statement that Indian players are more of 'colleagues than friends'. While Ashwin doesn't find anything wrong in the statement, many pundits and cricket analysts were surprised to see how the team's equation has evolved over the years. (More Cricket news)

However, Ashwin touched upon the statement stating that there's a difference between what he said & what was understood by people. He also went on to explain that as to why it's so difficult for Indian cricketers to be friends these days.

"What I said and what people are understanding are completely different. What I meant was that earlier, because the tours used to be long, there was more scope for friendship. But these days we are constantly playing --- different formats, different teams. One thing I have always believed is that when you are playing for different teams, it is very difficult to be friends. You have to keep that competitive spirit burning to be able to compete," he said in an interview with the Times of India.

Citing the Indian Premier League as a major factor, Ashwin underlined that the T20 tournament is the reason behind the 'lack of friendship' amongst many stars.

"When you play IPL, for three months your (international) teammates end up becoming your opposition. When you play so much for different teams, I am not saying friendship doesn't happen, but it is very difficult. But then again, that is the way of the world -- the changing landscape -- and I don't think there is anything negative about it," he further explained.

Many leagues and tournaments have given rise to fierce competitions as compared to the olden days. Thus, according to Ashwin, it's very complicated for cricketers from India to maintain friendship.