Veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has officially announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 14-year career in the tournament. Ashwin shared the news on the social media platform X, stating that while his IPL journey has ended, he now looks forward to exploring cricket opportunities in leagues across the world.

The off-spinner leaves the IPL as its fourth-highest wicket-taker, with 187 wickets from 221 appearances. Since making his debut with Chennai Super Kings in 2009, he has gone on to represent multiple franchises, including Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. In the end, his last stint came full circle with CSK, the team where his IPL journey had begun.

Ashwin had already informed the CSK management weeks earlier about his decision to move on, saying he wanted clarity about his future role with the franchise. His final IPL season in 2025 saw him play 14 matches and pick up seven wickets. In total, he claimed 56 wickets for CSK and was part of the side’s back-to-back title wins in 2010 and 2011.

Reflecting on his decision, Ashwin wrote: “They say every ending has a new start. My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my journey as an explorer of the game across leagues begins now. I thank all the franchises, IPL, and BCCI for the memories and opportunities. I look forward to what’s ahead.”

Ashwin’s career in the IPL also included a brief stint as captain of the Punjab Kings in 2018 and 2019. Though results were mixed, his tenure was remembered for the much-debated dismissal of Jos Buttler at the non-striker’s end, a moment that remains one of the most discussed incidents in IPL history.

With BCCI contracts no longer binding him, Ashwin is now free to feature in overseas leagues such as the BBL, The Hundred, CPL, and SA20. He already plays for Dindigul Dragons in the Tamil Nadu Premier League and has long hinted at his desire to test himself in different competitions globally.

By stepping away from the IPL, Ashwin joins a growing list of senior Indian cricketers who are opening new chapters of their careers abroad. His next move is keenly awaited by fans and franchises alike.