Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has officially retired from Indian cricket, announcing on Wednesday, August 27, that he is stepping away from the IPL.
Ashwin took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he 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.”
In the same X post, he further hinted that he might be open to playing in the franchise tournaments around the globe.
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…
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 27, 2025
“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,” he added.
Ashwin’s IPL career
Ashwin, began his IPL journey in 2009 with Chennai Super Kings, went on to play 221 matches, picking up 187 wickets with his off-spin at an economy rate of 7.20. He also chipped in with the bat, scoring 833 runs, including one half-century.
Over the years, the 38-year-old turned out for five franchises – CSK, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. He played a key role in CSK’s title triumphs in 2010 and 2011.
In what turned out to be his final season, Ashwin featured for CSK in 2025, but it was a tough run for him as he managed just seven wickets in nine matches.