In a major development that marks the end of an era in the Indian Premier League (IPL)veteran spins Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the tournament.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from Indian Premier League (IPL)

The superstar cricketer, Ashwin, who had already retired from international cricket, shared the news through a social media post on August 27, bringing his 16-year-long IPL journey to a close. Ashwin’s decision comes just months after he made a much-anticipated return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the IPL 2025 season. Earlier this month, reports had emerged that the spinner had sought clarification from CSK regarding his role for the upcoming IPL 2026, fueling speculation about his future.

In a heartfelt post, Ashwin wrote, “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,”. This statement suggests that while he is moving on from the IPL, he intends to continue his career in other T20 leagues around the world, a path that is only possible for Indian cricketers after retiring from all forms of Indian cricket, including the IPL.

Ashwin’s IPL franchise journey defined by wickets and leadership

Ashwin bows out of the league with a stellar record, having played 221 matches and finishing with 187 IPL wickets. He retires as one of the tournament’s top five highest wicket-takers, behind the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla. His illustrious career saw him represent five different franchises, including CSK, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royalswith whom he took 187 wickets and scored 833 runs.

A renowned figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL)Ashwin has carved out a brilliant 17-year career with his tactical genius and adaptability. A two-time IPL champion with CSK in 2010 and 2011, he has consistently delivered match-winning performances. His overall IPL record is impressive, with 180 wickets in 212 matches at an average of 29.83 and an economy rate of 7.12Beyond his bowling, he has also been a useful lower-order batter, scoring 800 runs with one half-century, proving his value as a true all-rounder. Ashwin’s IPL journey has taken him across five different franchises, with his contributions of both wickets and experience proving invaluable to each team.

1. Chennai Super Kings (2008–2015):

This is where Ashwin’s IPL journey began and where he truly made his name as a premier spinner. He was a key part of the squad that won back-to-back titles, showcasing his off-spin brilliance and exceptional control. During his tenure, he was a linchpin of the bowling attack, taking an impressive around 80 wickets for the franchise. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and the middle overs with an incredibly low economy rate was a cornerstone of CSK’s dominance. In a much-anticipated homecoming, he returned to CSK for the 2025 season, where he took 7 wickets in 9 games before his retirement

2. Rising Pune Supergiant (2016–2017):

Following CSK’s suspension, Ashwin moved to RPS. He brought his wealth of experience to the new side and quickly became a key member of their bowling lineup. Although an injury sidelined him for the 2017 season, his presence and tactical nous during the 2016 campaign were crucial. In his time with the team, he took a solid 10 wickets.

3. Punjab Kings (2018–2019):

Ashwin took on a leadership role at Punjab Kings, transitioning from a key player to a captain. This move underscored the immense respect he commands within the cricketing fraternity. As captain, he guided the team with his bowling expertise and tactical acumen, taking 25 wickets across his two seasons with the franchise. His captaincy was marked by clever bowling changes and strategic field placements that often baffled the opposition.

4. Delhi Capitals (2020–2021):

At the Delhi Capitals, Ashwin continued to be a key contributor with his vast experience. He formed a potent spin partnership and played a vital role in the team’s resurgence. He took 13 wickets in the 2020 season alone and a further 7 wickets in 2021, helping the team make deep runs in the tournament. His influence went beyond statistics, as he was a crucial mentor for young players and a calming presence in high-pressure situations.

5. Rajasthan Royals (2022–2024):

As a veteran with the Rajasthan Royals, Ashwin has been a crucial part of their strategy, delivering impactful performances and mentoring young talent. He has taken 12 wickets in 2022 and 14 wickets in 2023 for the team and 9 wickets in 2024, with his clever variations and adaptability to different match situations making him a vital cog in the Royals’ setup.

Ashwin’s IPL salary since debut

• 2008–2010: INR 1,200,000 (CSK
• 2011–2013: INR 39,100,000 (CSK)
• 2014–2015: INR 75,000,000 (CSK)
• 2016–2017: INR 75,000,000 (RPS)
• 2018–2019: INR 76,000,000 (PBKS)
• 2020–2021: INR 76,000,000 (Delhi Capitals)
• 2022–2023: INR 50,000,000 (Rajasthan Royals)
• 2024: INR 50,000,000 (Rajasthan Royals)
• 2025: INR 97,500,000 (CSK)