Within months of retiring from international cricket, veteran India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League on Wednesday, ending a 16-year involvement with the competition.
Ashwin posted on social media to make the announcement.
“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 posted on X,
“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.
After a stellar career in which he became India’s second-highest wicket-taker (537) in Test matches, behind Anil Kumble (619), the 38-year-old announced his retirement from international cricket in December of last year during the Australian tour.
He was one of the most talented players in the IPL, making his debut with the Chennai Super Kings in 2009. After rejoining CSK for Rs 9.75 crore after a ten-year hiatus, his final appearance also took place in the yellow jersey during the 2025 Indian Premier League.
Overall, Ashwin played 221 IPL matches, claiming 187 wickets at an average of 30.22 with best figures of 4/34. With the bat, he accumulated 833 runs, including a highest score of 50, at an average of 13.02.
In addition to playing for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals during his league career, Ashwin was a key component of CSK’s championship runs in 2010 and 2011.
