Ravichandran Ashwin retires from IPL after 221 matches, begins new chapter in global leagues
PTC Web Desk: Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), bringing an end to a memorable career in the world’s biggest T20 tournament. Ashwin, who made the announcement on Wednesday, via social media, played 221 matches in the competition, claiming 187 wickets and scoring 833 runs.
Sharing an emotional note with fans, Ashwin wrote:
"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."
Ashwin’s IPL journey
Ashwin represented five franchises in his IPL career — Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. He even captained the Punjab franchise during his stint there. The off-spinner retires as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, behind Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sunil Narine, and Piyush Chawla.
Ashwin’s IPL tally includes 187 wickets and a batting record of 833 runs, with one half-century to his name.
Final IPL season with CSK
The 2025 season marked Ashwin’s final outing in the IPL, where he turned out for his home team, Chennai Super Kings. However, the campaign was a difficult one for both CSK and Ashwin, with the off-spinner managing 7 wickets and 33 runs in 9 matches.
The season also saw controversy around his YouTube channel, after analyst Prasanna Agoram suggested Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad was not required in the CSK playing XI. The remarks drew backlash, prompting the channel to clarify that Agoram’s opinions were personal and did not reflect Ashwin’s views.
Trade rumours and retirement speculation
Ashwin’s decision comes amid speculation about his CSK future. Bought for Rs 9.75 crore at the 2025 mega auction, his return to CSK was seen as an emotional homecoming. But after an underwhelming season, questions were raised about his retention ahead of 2026.
On his YouTube show, Ashwin had earlier stressed the importance of clarity from franchises regarding player retention and contracts. While he dismissed rumours surrounding him and other players, uncertainty over his CSK role may have played a part in his retirement call.
With his IPL journey ending, Ashwin now looks forward to exploring opportunities in global T20 leagues, carrying with him the experience of being one of the tournament’s most consistent performers.
- With inputs from agencies
