R. Ashwin IPL Retirement: Ashwin retired from IPL- took 187 wickets in 221 matches; wrote in retirement post- will now play foreign league

R. Ashwin IPL Retirement: Indian cricket's veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). On Tuesday, he informed about his decision through social media. In his message, Ashwin said goodbye to his IPL career and hinted at a new beginning in foreign leagues.

Ashwin's emotional message

Ashwin wrote in his social media post,

"It is said that every end is a new beginning. My time as an IPL cricketer is ending today, but my time playing in many foreign leagues is starting today."

He further expressed his gratitude to all the franchises, IPL and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

"I would like to thank all the franchises for the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the IPL and BCCI for the opportunity they have given me so far. Looking forward to enjoying whatever lies ahead and making the most of it."

Great career in IPL

Ashwin played 221 matches in IPL, in which he took 187 wickets with a great economy rate of 7.29. He also scored 833 runs in batting, in which his strike rate was 118. Last season (IPL 2025) he was a part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), but could play only 9 matches. His last IPL match was on 20 May 2025.

CSK bought him for Rs 9.75 crore in the mega auction, after which he returned to his home franchise after 9 years. Ashwin started his IPL career with CSK in 2008 and was part of the team till 2015. After this, from 2016 to 2024, he played for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.

Retirement from international cricket too

Ashwin also retired from international cricket during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in December last year. After the Gaba Test (14-18 December 2024), he announced this in a press conference with captain Rohit Sharma. He said, "Today was my last day as an Indian team cricketer. I will continue playing club cricket." Ashwin played a total of 287 matches in all three formats and took 765 wickets. He is the second-highest wicket-taker for India, only Anil Kumble (953 wickets) is ahead of him.

Ashwin's new innings

Ashwin's decision may be shocking for his fans, but looking at his enthusiasm towards a new beginning, it seems that he is ready to showcase his experience and skills in foreign T20 leagues. His move will not only give a new direction to his career, but his legacy will also become a source of inspiration for young cricketers.