Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a 14-year career. The 38-year-old, who finished as the fourth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history with 187 wickets from 221 matches, shared the news on social media.
A New Chapter
Ashwin’s decision marks the end of his time as an IPL cricketer but signals a new beginning. He stated that he will now focus on playing in various other leagues around the world. “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,” he wrote on X. He also thanked the franchises, the IPL, and the BCCI for their support throughout his career.
Career Highlights
Ashwin’s IPL journey included stints with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. His most memorable period was with CSK, where he won consecutive titles in 2010 and 2011. Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, Ashwin became known for his innovative approach, often opening the bowling during the Powerplay.
While his career was filled with successes, it also had its share of controversy. In 2019, while captaining the Punjab Kings, he infamously dismissed Jos Buttler of the Rajasthan Royals by running him out at the non-striker’s end, a move that sparked a major debate and remains one of the most talked-about moments in IPL history.
Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL comes nine months after he retired from international cricket, following India’s drawn Test match against Australia.
