R Ashwin announces IPL retirement, ending a legendary career
Former Indian off-spinner R. Ashwin has officially said goodbye to Indian cricket, announcing his retirement from the IPL on Wednesday, August 27. “It’s a special day, marking a special beginning. They say every ending leads to a new start. While my journey as an IPL cricketer wraps up today, my adventure as a game explorer across various leagues kicks off,” Ashwin shared on X (formerly Twitter), hinting that he might be open to participating in franchise tournaments worldwide. “I want to express my gratitude to all the franchises for the incredible memories and relationships built over the years, and especially to the @IPL and @BCCI for everything they’ve given me so far.
I’m excited to embrace what lies ahead,” he added. At 38, Ashwin had already stepped away from international cricket in December during the tour of Australia, wrapping up a remarkable career that saw him become India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 537 wickets, just behind Anil Kumble’s 619.
R Ashwin announces IPL retirement – In the IPL, he was known as one of the sharpest minds in the game, making his debut with the Chennai Super Kings in 2009. His final appearance also came in the iconic yellow jersey during IPL 2025, after rejoining CSK for Rs 9.75 crore following a decade-long hiatus.
Throughout his IPL journey, he played in 221 matches, claiming 187 wickets at an average of 30.22, with his best figures being 4/34. With the bat, he accumulated 833 runs, with a top score of 50 and an average of 13.02. Ashwin was a key player in CSK’s title-winning teams in 2010 and 2011 and also played for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals during his time in the league.