Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from IPL, Eyes Overseas T20 Leagues
Ravichandran Ashwin Bids Farewell to IPL
On August 27, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made a surprising announcement regarding his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). After a remarkable 15-year journey, during which he represented five franchises across 17 seasons, Ashwin decided to step away from the lucrative T20 league.
Using his X account (formerly Twitter), Ashwin shared his intention to explore opportunities in international T20 leagues. The 38-year-old expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the IPL, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the franchises he played for, cherishing the 'wonderful memories' he created.
He stated, "A special day and hence a special beginning. They say every ending will have a new start; my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my journey as an explorer of the game in various leagues begins today."
Speculations Surrounding His Departure from CSK
Ashwin's retirement announcement followed a week of speculation regarding his potential exit from the Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026. He sought clarity from the franchise management about his role for the upcoming season, indicating he was prepared to part ways if he did not fit into their plans.
Reports suggest that the relationship between Ashwin and CSK became strained after a controversial remark concerning the signing of Dewald Brevis as a replacement during IPL 2025. Ashwin claimed that CSK might have had 'extra money' for Brevis compared to his base price of INR 75 lakh, a claim that CSK vehemently denied, asserting that the signing adhered to IPL regulations.
Ashwin's Eligibility for Overseas T20 Leagues
Having retired from international cricket during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the Gabba Test in December, Ashwin continued his career in the IPL and Tamil Nadu Premier League. With his retirement from both international cricket and the IPL, his association with the BCCI has effectively concluded.
This change means Ashwin is now eligible to participate in any T20 leagues of his choice. Players contracted with the BCCI are typically barred from playing in T20 leagues outside of the IPL, but since Ashwin is no longer under contract, he can freely sign with foreign franchises.
Future Prospects in T20 Leagues
Recently, 13 Indian players, including notable names like Piyush Chawla and Dinesh Karthik, registered for the upcoming SA20 League Auction scheduled for September 9. Karthik, who played for Paarl Royals in the last edition of the SA20 league, had also retired from all formats of cricket.
As Ashwin transitions from the IPL, reports indicate that he is eyeing participation in The Hundred next season, aiming to leverage his extensive experience and spin skills in the English league. His retirement from the IPL frees him from any BCCI contractual obligations, allowing him to sign with overseas T20 franchises without needing prior approval.
Ashwin's IPL Legacy
Ravichandran Ashwin retires as the fifth leading wicket-taker in IPL history, with a total of 187 wickets, including a four-wicket haul, boasting an average of 30.22 and an economy rate of 7.20 across 221 matches. Among spinners, he ranks fourth, following Yuzvendra Chahal (221), Sunil Narine (192), and Piyush Chawla (192).
In T20 cricket overall, Ashwin is the third leading wicket-taker among Indian bowlers, having taken 317 wickets, including four four-wicket hauls, with an average of 26.94 and an economy rate of 7.11 in 33 matches.