Ravichandran Ashwin has retired from the IPL, ending a 221-match career with 187 wickets (Image Credit - Instagram/rashwin99)
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of Indian cricket’s most accomplished all-rounders, has officially retired from the Indian Premier League (IPL), drawing the curtain on a celebrated domestic T20 career. Ashwin, who last represented Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2025 season, had already stepped away from international cricket in December 2024 after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. His IPL exit comes as a surprise, particularly amid speculation linking him with a possible return to Rajasthan Royals for the 2026 campaign.
Taking to social media, Ashwin described his retirement as both an ending and a beginning. “My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins,” he wrote.
Ashwin thanked all IPL franchises, the league itself, and the BCCI for their support. With BCCI rules preventing active Indian cricketers from playing in overseas leagues, Ashwin’s decision clears the way for him to participate in global T20 tournaments for the first time.
According to BCCI policy, Indian players can only take part in overseas leagues after retiring from both international cricket and the IPL, a path Ashwin has now officially taken.
Ashwin leaves behind an impressive IPL legacy. Since debuting in 2009, he played 221 matches, capturing 187 wickets at an economy rate of 7.20. Known for his tactical brilliance and variations, he maintained a bowling average of 30.22 and a strike rate of 25.2. His best performance came with figures of 4/34. With the bat, Ashwin made valuable lower-order contributions, scoring 833 runs at a strike rate of 118.15, including one half-century.
Ashwin’s departure marks the end of an IPL era, but the beginning of a global adventure that promises to extend his legendary presence in the game. His next move will be closely watched as fans look forward to seeing his impact on the international franchise circuit.
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Karan Singh Rathod is a dedicated sports journalist known for his sharp attention to detail and flair for storytelling. With over a year of experience in writing and editorial work, he blends thorough research with compelling narratives to deliver engaging sports content. A passionate follower of football and cricket, he starts his mornings with a newspaper to stay updated with sports, fashion, and current affairs. Outside of journalism, Karan enjoys traveling and discovering new destinations.
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