R Ashwin, the former India spinner, has announced his retirement from IPL.
Ashwin, who will turn 39 in September, has played for five teams in the IPL: Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Rising Pune Supergiant and Rajasthan Royals. He retired from international cricket during the Australia tour late last year.
Ashwin made the announcement public through his social media account: "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 time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today.
"Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the IPL and the BCCI for what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me. #cricketforlife"
The timing of his retirement is interesting, especially as there's been discussion around his IPL future of late. Reports earlier this month indicated that he had asked his current IPL franchise – Chennai Super Kings – for clarity on his future and had also hinted at parting ways.
Last year, he has made a much-anticipated return to CSK, having first made headlines with the franchise at the start of his career. The move ahead of IPL 2025 was made at INR 9.75 crore.
However, he managed seven wickets in nine games, at an economy of 9.12, the worst in any season for him. CSK finished last on the points table with just eight points from 14 games.
Ashwin's statement makes it clear that he will be pursuing opportunities outside India in T20s, a move that would not have been possible had he not retired from IPL and Indian cricket. The BCCI currently doesn't allow any player who is part of the Indian cricket system to take part in overseas T20 leagues.
The timing could align with a potential spot in the SA20 2026, for which the auction is scheduled next month. Dinesh Karthik, Ashwin's India and Tamil Nadu teammate, became the first player to feature in the SA20, in 2025. So far, 11 Indian players have reportedly registered.
There could be opportunities elsewhere too, given that there's no dearth of T20 leagues around. The BBL, the ILT20, and the Hundred could be on his radar too.
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