'My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today';  Ashwin announces retirement from IPL

CHENNAI: Former India spinner R. Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 38-year-old made the announcement via his X account. Ashwin, who was bought by Chennai Super Kings for Rs 9.75 crore in the 2025 IPL mega auction, surprised fans by declaring his exit amid speculations about a potential transfer ahead of the next season.

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 had retired from international cricket last year during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. In 106 Test matches, he scored 3,503 runs, including six centuries and 14 half-centuries, and took 537 wickets, becoming India’s second-highest Test wicket-taker after Anil Kumble. In ODIs, he claimed 154 wickets in 116 matches, and in T20s, 72 wickets in 65 matches.

In the IPL, Ashwin has represented Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals, and also captained Kings XI Punjab. Across 221 matches, he has taken 187 wickets.