India player Ravichandran Ashwin was at the receiving end of online bashing for stating that the return of his former IPL team Chennai Super Kings will increase its value just like Manchester United when eight players of the English football club died in an air crash in Munich, 1958.

"I think the two-year hiatus for CSK probably increases its value much like what it did for Manchester United when the air crash happened.

“I don't know if it's in the same league but surely people in Chennai and fans across the world are waiting for CSK to return. I hope it turns out to be a good comeback," Ashwin told cricbuzz.

Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were banned for two years after their owners were found to be involved in betting activities.

The comparisons drew criticism on social media, especially from Manchester United fans.

The 1958 Munich air crash crippled Manchester United, who had to play local boys in order to respect their fixtures and complete the season.

Ashwin took to twitter to justify his comparison and said: “Guys please take the reporting with a pinch of salt with respect to the Munich tragedy and CSK.