 "Ravichandran Ashwin retires from IPL with 187 wickets in 221 matches. Image: PTI")
Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), but confirmed that he will continue to play cricket in franchise leagues outside India.
Ashwin was a part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 and was linked with a return to his former franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) , ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, but the veteran off-spinner has stumped all the experts and fans with his sudden announcement, just like he does with his bowling.
Ashwin quits IPL, will play in overseas leagues
Ashwin, who began his IPL career in 2009, a year after the league was launched, took 187 wickets in 221 matches at an economy of 7.20. He played for teams like CSK, RR, Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rising Pune Supergiant (RPSG).
Ashwin also captained PBKS in the 2018 and 2019 seasons of the IPL.
“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,” Ashwin wrote on X, announcing his IPL retirement.
“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,” he added.
The 38-year-old retired from international cricket last year during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With his retirement from IPL, he is now free to play in overseas franchise leagues.