Just a day after Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket and the IPL, reports suggest that the ace spinner could be in line for a player-cum-coach role in overseas T20 leagues — and perhaps even a coaching assignment in the IPL.

Adding fuel to speculation, Rajasthan Royals confirmed the exit of head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of IPL 2026. Dravid, who returned to the Royals in 2024 on a multi-year deal, declined an expanded role following a structural review, bringing an abrupt end to his second stint with the franchise.

Ashwin, who spent his final IPL years with Rajasthan Royals, now finds himself linked to the vacated role. With his unmatched cricketing acumen, tactical nous, and deep association with the Royals’ dressing room, many believe he could be a natural successor to Dravid.

According to Cricbuzz, Ashwin is already being approached by overseas leagues like The Hundred, Major League Cricket, ILT20, and even Big Bash League for hybrid roles. However, an IPL coaching job with the Royals could be the most high-profile opportunity on his radar.

The Royals endured a disappointing 2025 season, finishing ninth despite a star-studded squad. With Dravid stepping away, the management is expected to either bring in a fresh face or recall Kumar sangakkaracurrently serving as Director of Cricket. Ashwin’s entry into the coaching circuit, if confirmed, would offer a familiar yet bold new direction.

For now, it’s speculation — but with IPL 2026 just months away, Ashwin’s post-retirement journey could very well begin in pink.