Ravichandran Ashwin Bids Farewell to IPL Career, Embraces New Opportunities
Ravichandran Ashwin Announces IPL Retirement
Ravichandran Ashwin has officially announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The renowned spinner shared his decision on social media, hinting at his future endeavors in franchise cricket worldwide.
In his statement, Ashwin reflected on his journey, stating, "Today marks a significant day, and thus a special beginning. Every ending paves the way for a new start. While my time as an IPL player concludes today, my exploration in various leagues begins now. I want to express my gratitude to all the franchises for the wonderful memories and relationships built over the years, and most importantly, to the IPL and BCCI for everything they have provided me. I look forward to enjoying and making the most of what lies ahead."
Ashwin's IPL Journey and Performance
After being acquired by Chennai Super Kings for ₹9.75 crores, Ashwin had a challenging season, participating in only nine matches and taking seven wickets. Earlier this month, reports indicated that Ashwin and CSK were parting ways.
The 38-year-old off-spinner made his IPL debut with CSK in 2009 and has since played 221 matches, claiming 187 wickets. He ranks as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, having participated in 16 out of 18 seasons.
Ashwin was a crucial player in CSK's title victories in 2010 and 2011, where he took 13 and 20 wickets, respectively. He was also named Player of the Series during CSK's Champions League T20 win in 2010. In the IPL final the following year, he bowled the first over against RCB, dismissing Chris Gayle for a duck and contributed to CSK's second Champions League T20 title in 2014.
Transition to Other Teams
Following a successful tenure with his home franchise, Ashwin played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings (where he served as captain), Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals.
From his debut in 2009 until the 2015 season, Ashwin played for CSK, taking a total of 90 wickets. After CSK faced a ban in 2016, he joined RPS under MS Dhoni's captaincy but missed the 2017 season due to injury. In 2018, Punjab Kings acquired him for ₹7.60 crores, appointing him as captain, but the team failed to reach the playoffs in both seasons despite his 25 wickets.
Before the 2020 season, he was traded to Delhi Capitals, where he played for two years. In the 2022 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals signed him for ₹5 crores, where he formed a formidable spin duo with Yuzvendra Chahal. However, his performance dipped in 2024, leading to his release from the Royals, after which CSK brought him back at a significant price.