"My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close"- Ravichandran Ashwin retires from IPL

Ravichandran Ashwin picked 187 wickets in IPL.

In what has been the latest development, veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). He made the decision public through a social media post on Wednesday (27th August).

Ravichandran Ashwin, who was part of the Chennai Super Kings last year in the IPL, has been a stalwart in the league. The off-spinner started his career with CSK and ended with the same franchise, which was his home team.

Ashwin made his debut in the IPL 2009 with CSK and played a key role in the team winning the titles in 2010 and 2011. He also helped the franchise win the Champions League and was part of the team till the 2015 season.

In 2015, Ashwin joined now-defunct Rising Pune Super Giants, followed by stints with the Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Rajasthan Royals (RR). He also played a key role with other franchises in the league, picking wickets at crucial phases. He also captained PBKS. 

They say every ending will have a new start, my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close – Ravichandran Ashwin

Taking to his Twitter account, Ravichandran Ashwin confirmed that he won’t be featuring in the IPL. 

“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 a disappointing season last year. He was acquired by CSK for INR 9.75 crore. But he didn’t live up to the expectations as he bagged just seven wickets in nine games at an average of 40.43 and an economy rate of 9.13. Overall, he picked 187 wickets.

Ashwin also confirmed that he will be available to play in the overseas leagues now. In December last year, he called time on his international career.

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