New Zealand’s wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert has been in sublime touch during the 2025 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), delivering match-winning knocks for St Lucia Kings. His fearless approach at the crease has made him one of the standout players this season.

He etched his name in CPL history by smashing a joint-fastest century, achieved in just 40 balls. He went on to remain unbeaten with a scintillating 125 from just 53 balls, smashing 10 boundaries and nine sixes against Antigua and Barbuda Falcons.

So far in the tournament, Seifert has accumulated 277 runs across five innings, maintaining a staggering average of 69.25 and a strike rate of 178.70, featuring one half-century and a memorable century.

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Ravichandran Ashwin Suggests CSK can Show Interest to Tim Seifert:

Capitalizing on Tim Seifert’s remarkable CPL form, ex-India and CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared a video on his YouTube channel on Monday, September 1. In the clip, Ashwin hinted that Chennai Super Kings could show interest in signing the New Zealand wicketkeeper during the 2026 IPL auction, suggesting his current form makes him a strong potential target.

He said, “ I get a small feeling whether CSK would be tempted to go for Tim Seifert. If you look at CSK’s history, they like to go with an experienced player in the opening slot. In case there is no Devon Conway or Rachin Ravindra, and they look to take a different route and go in search of an overseas opening batter, then there is a New Zealand-New Zealand connection.”

He further said, “ He has the experience. He is a very good fielder. He can keep if needed. Wherever he has played the T20 format, his game has gone up. I feel if not CSK, some other franchise will surely pick him.”

Reasons Why CSK Should Look for Tim Seifert in IPL 2026:

With Ashwin suggesting CSK should target Tim Seifert, it becomes important to assess the possible advantages of such a move. Here are three compelling reasons why the five-time IPL winners should consider adding the New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter to their squad during the 2026 auction, given his recent form and versatile batting ability.

• Tim Seifert’s batting style adapts well to Chepauk’s spin-friendly pitches

One big factor that could draw Chennai Super Kings (CSK) toward Tim Seifert is his strong batting ability against spin. Over the years, the franchise has been known for creating turning pitches at their home base, the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Interestingly, in the past few seasons, pacers have enjoyed more success than spinners on this ground. This shift might push CSK to revert to spin-friendly conditions once again. If that happens, Seifert’s comfort and fluency against slow bowlers could make him a valuable asset for the five-time IPL champions in the coming years.

If CSK lean back towards spin-friendly conditions, Tim Seifert could be a smart pick. His T20 record against spinners speaks for itself, having scored 1,635 runs in 121 innings at an average of 37.2 while striking at 130. In 2025, he looked even sharper, piling up 306 runs against spin at a strike rate of 150.7. 

His dominance has been on full display in the CPL 2025, where the 30-year-old smashed 149 runs in just four innings, averaging 149 with a staggering strike rate of 196.1. Such numbers highlight his reliability against slow bowlers.

• Extensive exposure in international cricket and global T20 leagues

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a history of trusting experienced campaigners, and Tim Seifert matches that profile well. Since his T20I debut for New Zealand in 2018, the wicketkeeper-batter has represented his country in 71 matches. Over this period, he has compiled 1,736 runs at an average of 29.42, striking at 142.29, with 12 half-centuries to his name.

Apart from representing New Zealand, Seifert has consistently showcased his skills across multiple T20 franchise leagues around the globe. He has featured in 282 games, amassing 6,465 runs in 260 innings. His overall record includes a steady average of 28.60 and a healthy strike rate of 134.18, along with 31 fifties and four centuries, his best being an unbeaten 125.

• Seifert’s presence offers Ruturaj Gaikwad freedom in batting order

One of Tim Seifert’s biggest strengths is his adaptability in the batting lineup. The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter has the ability to open or shift into the middle order, which gives Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad more freedom to settle into his preferred role.

During the 2025 IPL season, Gaikwad played a few matches at No. 3 before his campaign was cut short by injury. Having Seifert in the squad would give CSK greater flexibility to adjust their batting order if similar challenges arise in the future.

Beyond his batting, Seifert is also a dependable wicketkeeper. This dual skillset makes him an ideal option for CSK, especially if MS Dhoni decides to retire before IPL 2026.

Former India international Ravichandran Ashwin suggested Chennai Super Kings (CSK) go for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert.

The New Zealand keeper-batter has been in great form in the ongoing Caribbean Premier League (CPL 2025) by scoring 277 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 178.71. Seifert recently smashed a 40-ball century in the tournament to register his name in the history book as the joint-fastest century in CPL.

Ashwin, who recently retired from IPL as well, opined that the 30-year-old can be a good fit for CSK for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). The five-time IPL-winning franchise has the tendency to cash in for experienced overseas cricketers who can bat in the upper front of their batting lineup; additionally, their love for Kiwis is also well known.

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"If you look at CSK’s history, they like to go with an experienced player in the opening slot," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

A keeper in place of MS Dhoni

With the experience of playing over 280 T20 games and scoring 6,465 runs in total, Seifert's stat card is looking well enough to represent Chennai Super Kings. Last season (IPL 2025), Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway failed to play according to the expectations. If they decide to release one of the batters, then, automatically, there will be a vacant place for an overseas cricketer in the team. As an opener in 2025, Tim has scored 1,047 runs in 31 innings at an average of 37.39 and a strike rate of 159.84, including one century and 4 fifties across T20 leagues and international T20Is.

Another thing is that CSK needs someone who can serve the team for a long time with the wicketkeeping gloves. As of now, Tim Seifert is looking for the best possible option, someone who can be the best possible cricketer who can fill up all those gaps. 

Ravichandran Ashwin can play in ILT20, as he has already registered his name in the tournament. Now, he'll have to wait and see which franchises show interest in acquiring his service. Accumulating last season's tournament, there can be multiple franchises that can show interest in the experienced all-rounder. Through this article we'll try to find some ILT20 teams that may bid for the former international cricketer. 

3 teams that can show interest in Ravichandran Ashwin:

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: This franchise needs to cash in for a prolific spin-bowling all-rounder, as they have to find a proper bowling partner for Sunil Narine. They have West Indies' Roston Chase as a spin-bowling all-rounder to accompany Narine. But the quality between these two cricketers, in terms of spin bowling, is massive.

Roston is more like a batter-cum-spinner rather than a spinner-cum-batter. On the contrary, Ashwin is mostly famous for his bowling person, who has the potential to add some runs from the lower order. 

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MI Emirates: There is a vacancy for a spinner in the MI Emirates squad, as they already released West Indies international Akeal Hosein and Waqar Salamkheil. Both had performed poorly, unable to match the expectations. Ahead of next season's ILT20, this franchise must sign a world-class spinner. Without any doubts, Ashwin has the potential to fill up this space. 

Gulf Giants: The name of the franchise in the list might not sound appropriate, but they may have the requirement for a spin bowling all-rounder. In their last season's squad, they have multiple pace bowling all-rounders to support the lower end of the batting and bowling according to the conditions of the match.

Gulf Giants had multiple well-known all-rounders, but they also had to deal with inconsistency. On a dry surface, a slower or spin bowler can prove more effective than a fast bowler. Additionally, Ravichandran Ashwin can add value with his batting skills as well. 

After taking retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ravichandran Ashwin has registered his name for the upcoming ILT20. He revealed his future plans during a recent interaction. There, Ashwin said that he has sent his name in the franchise league, outside India, and is keeping his fingers crossed with the hope of finding a buyer. After signing off from international duties, Ashwin stepped out from IPL as well. After closing the IPL chapter of his career, the former international is now looking for opportunities he did not explore before. If he is able to find a team in ILT20, then the spinner's travel to the less traveled roads will begin. 

"I won’t say it’s a well-planned decision. But my way of life has been travelling paths less travelled. But I don’t do anything for not going in a particular direction. I wouldn’t deny that I didn’t have in mind the thought of playing overseas," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

"It was there. In my mind, I want to really enjoy cricket in the final stages of my cricket career. I don’t want any regrets in life. I will definitely keep playing cricket. For me, cricket is a source of great joy." 

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After this, in a media conversation, he spoke about his desire to play in the ILT20 as he quoted, "I have sent my name for the ILT20 auction. Hopefully, I will have a buyer." 

The 38-year-old, throughout his IPL career, played a total of 221 matches, claiming 187 wickets, including a 4/34 bowling figure and a 7.20 economy rate. With the bat, in 98 innings, the all-rounder got 833 runs in total before retiring from IPL.

A few weeks ago, the reports claimed that Sanju Samson, the captain of the Rajasthan Royals, is expected to move to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) through trades ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). To start with, the franchise isn’t seemingly interested in this purchase as the entire decision sits with the principal owner, Manoj Badale.

The Kerala-born batter has smashed a total of 4704 IPL runs in 172 innings at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 139.04, with the help of three centuries and 26 half-centuries at the best score of 119 runs. In the previous season for the Royals, Samson clubbed 285 runs in nine innings of the IPL at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39 with one fifty.

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“Our owner (Manoj Badale) will take a call on this; he will decide. That, too, would be decided by the owner.” The Royals’ insider expressed to Revsportz, while eliminating the suggestions of the broken relationship between the captain and the head coach of the side, Rahul Dravid.

Report reveals Sanju Samson’s fate ahead of IPL 2026

The currently retired IPL spinner for CSK, Ravichandran Ashwin, has shed light on why he feels that the news of Samson going into the Super Kings is unlikely to happen. Sanju is also part of the 15-member squad of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, but is unlikely to be part of the playing eleven.

“Why the CSK-RR trade won’t work is because if Sanju is traded to CSK, and RR then tries to trade with other teams, they are unlikely to get valuable players in return. For example, if RR wants a spinner like Ravi Bishnoi and approaches LSG, the problem is that if LSG acquires Sanju and gives away Bishnoi, they also have to manage the remaining purse required to retain Sanju, which becomes LSG’s responsibility.” Ashwin expressed on his YouTube channel.

“CSK generally doesn’t believe in trading. They aren’t going to trade players like Ravindra Jadeja or Shivam Dube. So, in all likelihood, Sanju coming to CSK is bleak for the reasons I have explained. RR doesn’t have much to gain from this kind of trade.” Ashwin addressed.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian off-spinner, officially announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Wednesday, August 27. His decision comes shortly after uncertainty arose regarding his place in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad for the 2026 season.

The 38-year-old endured a challenging IPL 2025 campaign, where he picked up just seven wickets across nine games. With an average of 40.42 and an economy rate of 9.12, Ashwin struggled to deliver the consistent performances that once made him one of the league’s most reliable bowlers.

Having already stepped away from international cricket in December last year, Ashwin confirmed his IPL retirement through a heartfelt social media post. He expressed gratitude for his journey, stating that his time as an IPL cricketer has concluded. He also signaled a fresh chapter, planning to explore cricket leagues worldwide for opportunities.

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin vs Rashid Khan: Stats comparison after 136 IPL games

Statistical Comparison Between Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja:

Off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin brought the curtains down on his IPL career after 221 matches, finishing as the league’s fifth-highest wicket-taker. Following his retirement, it’s fitting to draw a comparison between his impressive IPL record and that of his long-time spin-bowling ally, Ravindra Jadeja, to see how the two stalwarts matched up statistically across their journeys.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Which spinner leads in wickets after 221 games?

Ravichandran Ashwin closed his IPL career with 221 appearances, where he picked up 187 wickets at an average of 30.22. His standout year came in 2011, finishing with 20 wickets at an impressive average of 19.40. Another productive run was in 2014, when he grabbed 16 wickets, averaging 27.31 for the season.

Ravindra Jadeja, after 221 IPL matches, secured 147 wickets at an average of 29.60. His best season statistically was in 2014, where he took 19 wickets at an average of 23.31. In 2019, Jadeja showcased his consistency, claiming 15 wickets at 22.86, reinforcing his value as a dependable IPL spinner.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Better Economy Rate Comparison After 221 IPL Matches:

Ravichandran Ashwin closed his IPL career with an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Between 2010 and 2013, he consistently kept it under seven, with 2015 standing out as his best season at just 5.84. Even in later years, from 2019 to 2023, he maintained figures below eight before his final two seasons saw his economy rise to 8.49 and 9.12.

Ravindra Jadeja, after completing 221 IPL matches, registered an economy rate of 7.59. His best came in 2009 with 6.47 and again in 2019 with 6.35. Between 2011 and 2013, he managed to stay under eight consistently, showing great control. However, the 2017 season proved difficult, where his economy rose sharply to 9.18.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Who claimed more four-wicket hauls after 221 IPL games?

Ravichandran Ashwin managed just one four-wicket haul in his long IPL career. His best figures of 4/34 came in the 2016 season at Visakhapatnam while playing for Rising Pune Supergiants against Kings XI Punjab. In that game, he dismissed Hashim Amla, Murali Vijay, Gurkeerat Singh, and David Miller, helping his side secure a four-wicket victory.

Ravindra Jadeja, on the other hand, had a stronger record with three four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul after 221 matches. Jadeja’s best figures, 5/16, came in 2012 for CSK against Deccan Chargers at Visakhapatnam. In the same match, Jadeja also contributed a quickfire 48 off 29 balls, guiding CSK to a dominant 74-run win with his all-round brilliance.

• R Ashwin vs Ravindra Jadeja - Who holds the superior batting strike rate after 221 matches?

Ashwin managed 833 runs in 98 IPL innings, averaging 13.01 with a strike rate of 118.15. He scored just one fifty in the league, a 50 off 38 deliveries for Rajasthan Royals against Delhi Capitals in 2022 at DY Patil Stadium. Batting at No. 3, he struck four boundaries and two sixes.

In comparison, Jadeja collected 2,594 runs across 168 innings, with a better average of 26.20 and a strike rate of 128.16. The all-rounder registered two fifties, his best being an unbeaten 62 off 28 balls for Chennai Super Kings against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021. That match also highlighted his all-round brilliance, as he smashed 36 runs in one over and picked up 3-13.

The Indian Premier League will miss one of its greatest performers from the 2026 edition onwards as Ravichandran Ashwin officially confirmed his retirement on Wednesday, August 27. His departure marks the end of a memorable chapter for one of the tournament’s most successful spinners.

Ashwin, now 38, has been a key part of the IPL since making his debut in the league’s second season back in 2009. Over the years, he built a reputation as a dependable match-winner with his variations and sharp cricketing mind, making him a valuable asset for every franchise he represented.

His most iconic contributions came with the Chennai Super Kings, where he played a crucial role in guiding the team to their maiden IPL trophies in 2010 and 2011. Playing under MS Dhoni’s leadership, Ashwin’s consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure games cemented his place as one of the competition’s true legends.

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R Ashwin vs Rashid Khan: Stat Comparison After 136 Appearances:

Ravichandran Ashwin ended his IPL journey as the fifth-leading wicket-taker, securing 187 wickets in 221 games while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.20. While his consistency dipped in recent years, fans continue to cherish his exceptional spells from the early phase of his career, especially during the first decade.

Ashwin began his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings (2009–2015), playing a vital role under MS Dhoni. He moved to Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 but missed the 2017 season due to injury. In 2018 and 2019, he took charge as captain of Punjab Kings, maintaining his reputation as a dependable performer.

Rashid Khan, the Afghan spin sensation, has carved his own legacy in the IPL with a very different style compared to Ashwin. Since making his debut for SunRisers Hyderabad in 2017, the 26-year-old has been a consistent match-winner across nine seasons.

One of his biggest achievements came in 2022, when he played a vital role in guiding Gujarat Titans to a remarkable title in their debut season. With Ashwin stepping away, fans have naturally started drawing comparisons between the two modern-day spin greats.

Let’s examine Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL stats after 136 matches and compare them with Rashid Khan’s numbers at the same stage, providing insight into how both spinners performed and matched up in their respective careers.

• Complete Bowling Statistics Overview:

Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan featured for more than one franchise during their first 136 IPL appearances. Ashwin secured two IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings in his early seasons, whereas Rashid achieved his first championship with Gujarat Titans during his sixth campaign. Their journeys highlight different paths to success, but both spinners made their mark in the league.

When comparing their bowling figures after 136 matches, Rashid enjoys a clear edge. The Afghan leg-spinner claimed 158 wickets in that span, whereas Ashwin managed 122. Rashid also secured two four-wicket hauls during this period, while Ashwin registered one, underlining Rashid’s superior wicket-taking ability across these games.

• Bowling Impact Statistics Comparison:

In T20 cricket, raw numbers often matter less than performances that directly influence victories. Both Rashid Khan and Ravichandran Ashwin have delivered numerous match-winning spells throughout their IPL careers, proving their ability to turn games with their bowling. Their impact goes beyond wickets, affecting team strategy and morale during crucial moments.

When comparing their impact statistics—average, economy, and contributions in winning games—Ashwin edges out Rashid in most areas. While Rashid holds a slightly better overall bowling average after 136 IPL matches, Ashwin demonstrates superior economy and a greater influence on matches his team wins. 

These numbers highlight how the veteran Indian spinner consistently contributed to his team’s success, often more effectively than his Afghan counterpart.

• Which spinner excelled in high-pressure IPL matches?

Both Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan have thrived in IPL playoffs during their first 136 matches. Their consistency over the seasons ensured their respective teams regularly finished in the top half of the table, making them vital assets in high-pressure situations. Performing well in the big matches is a true test of a player’s temperament and skill.

Focusing on the IPL playoffs and finals, both spinners delivered key performances for their franchises. Their ability to take crucial wickets and maintain control with the ball often swung tight games in their teams’ favor.

Looking at the numbers after 136 games, the comparison is incredibly close. Rashid edges ahead slightly in average and economy, while both have comparable wicket tallies and match appearances, showing just how evenly matched they are in big-match scenarios.

• Additional contributions with the bat from lower-order players:

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan added significant value to their teams in the IPL with their contributions in the lower order. Ashwin relied on orthodox strokes to add stability and contribute useful runs, whereas Rashid stood out with his innovative, unpredictable shot-making that frequently caught bowlers off guard and shifted momentum.

When comparing their batting after 136 IPL matches, Rashid slightly edges out Ashwin. The Afghan spinner holds a marginally better batting average and a notably higher strike rate, making him more explosive and effective in finishing games, whereas Ashwin’s contributions were steady but less impactful in terms of rapid scoring.

The comparison between Ravichandran Ashwin and Rashid Khan after 136 IPL matches is incredibly close. Both matched each other in overall and impact stats, but Rashid slightly outshines Ashwin in knockout-stage performances and lower-order batting contributions. Their rivalry highlights how both spinners were equally crucial, yet excelled in different facets of the game.

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most successful spinners, has officially retired from the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2026 mini-auction. Making his debut in 2009, Ashwin carved a remarkable career in the tournament, finishing as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure made him one of the most reliable bowlers across franchises.

Harbhajan Singh, another legendary off-spinner for India, also finds a place among the top wicket-takers in IPL history, standing 13th on the list. Widely regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has produced, Harbhajan’s skill and control helped him earn immense respect during his IPL and international career.

While both spinners operated with similar foundations, their styles showed subtle differences. Ashwin often experimented with variations to stay ahead of batters, whereas Harbhajan relied more on traditional off-spin, making both unique in their own right.

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Comparing Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh’s IPL Records:

With that in mind, it’s interesting to draw a comparison between R Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh’s records after playing 163 IPL matches. Both legendary off-spinners left a lasting mark on the league, though their approaches and wicket-taking abilities highlight contrasting yet impactful bowling journeys.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: Complete Statistical Comparison:

Neither Ashwin nor Harbhajan managed a standout season with 20+ wickets, yet both remained reliable choices for their franchises. As frontline off-spinners, they played a key role in containing runs during the middle overs, creating pressure, and setting the stage for strike bowlers. Their ability to pick timely wickets further enhanced their value.

When comparing their records after 163 matches, the numbers reveal very little difference. Harbhajan concluded his IPL journey at that milestone, whereas Ashwin was still active and competing midway through the 2021 season. This makes their statistical comparison even more compelling for cricket fans.

Both bowlers recorded nearly identical wicket counts and economy rates over their IPL journeys. Harbhajan Singh held a narrow lead in terms of wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin initially maintained a slight edge with his tighter economy. Their overall numbers reflected remarkable consistency and effectiveness in the tournament.

However, Ashwin’s figures took a hit in his later years as aggressive modern-day batters targeted him more often. His struggles during the IPL 2025 season further impacted his record, eventually pushing his career economy rate above Harbhajan’s. By the end, Ashwin’s economy stood at 7.20, slightly higher than his counterpart.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: CSK Career Statistics:

Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh share the distinction of donning the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey and celebrating title victories with the team. However, they never played together for the franchise, with Ashwin departing after 2015 and returning a decade later in 2025, while Harbhajan featured during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.

Ashwin spent the early years of his IPL career at CSK, learning under the leadership of MS Dhoni and delivering crucial performances that established him as a reliable bowler. His time with the “Men in Yellow” shaped much of his journey in the league.

Harbhajan, meanwhile, joined CSK after their comeback from suspension, adding experience and depth. Though their numbers differ significantly, both left a lasting impact.

• R Ashwin vs Harbhajan Singh: Wickets Contributing to Team Victories:

Spinners often play a decisive role in T20 cricket, with their biggest impact coming through wickets. While some spinners focus more on restricting runs rather than attacking for wickets, the fast-paced nature of the format often forces batters into mistakes, helping even defensive bowlers create breakthroughs.

Both Harbhajan Singh and R Ashwin were crucial in their teams’ victories over the years. Harbhajan’s brilliant spell in the 2013 IPL Final for Mumbai Indians and Ashwin’s standout bowling in CSK’s 2011 title win are prime examples of how both men delivered when it mattered most for their franchises.

Harbhajan Singh featured in 95 victories during his IPL career, which accounted for 58.2 percent of his total matches. In those wins, he proved highly effective with the ball, claiming 104 wickets at an impressive average of 21.37 while maintaining an excellent economy rate of 6.70.

Ravichandran Ashwin, meanwhile, collected 90 wickets in his first 163 IPL games where his side ended victorious. By the close of his career, he improved those numbers to 117 wickets in 119 wins, averaging 25.02 with the ball and keeping his economy rate steady at 6.69.

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Wednesday (August 27), and now he is reportedly getting ready to participate in foreign cricket leagues.  

Ravichandran Ashwin: 5th leading wicket-taker in IPL

On Wednesday, the 38-year-old Ashwin surprised everyone by announcing his retirement from the IPL through his social media post. He finished his IPL career as the fifth leading wicket-taker with 187 wickets in 221 IPL matches. He served for five IPL teams, and these were Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Kings XI Punjab (presently known as Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. While the right-handed batter also scored 833 IPL runs, including one half-century, he finished as one of the five players in IPL history with 750+ runs and 150+ wickets. 

Serving for CSK, Ashwin picked up 127 wickets in 130 T20 matches, and finished as the third leading T20 wicket-taker for the team. He ended his IPL career serving for CSK, where he made a comeback for the team last season and picked up seven wickets in nine games in the IPL 2025. 

Due to the strict BCCI policy, the active Indian male domestic cricketers can't participate in the overseas franchise leagues. While we have seen former Indian cricketers play special cricket leagues, generally run with former cricketers, Dinesh Karthik featured in the last SA20, where he served for Paarl Royals. Recently, another former Indian cricketer Piyush Chawla, the joint third leading IPL wicket-taker (192 wickets), registered his name in the upcoming SA20 auction.  

See Also: Three important reasons why Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL retirement could be a mistake

R Ashwin in The Hundred

According to Telegraph Sport, Ashwin is eyeing participation in the Hundred 2026. If he gets selected, he can be the first Indian to feature in this special T20 cricket. Ashwin previously experienced English domestic cricket for Worcestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Surrey. As the IPL owners have also entered The Hundred ownerships, the expectation of Ashwin in the next Hundred season isn't very unnatural. 

Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary off-spinner known for his sharp cricketing mind and engaging personality, has always been a constant source of excitement both on and off the field. His clever bowling, tactical acumen, and witty presence in interviews have made him one of the most popular figures in Indian cricket.

In a surprising move, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced on Wednesday, August 27, that Ashwin would be retiring from the Indian Premier League. The news came as a shock to fans across the country, who have long admired his contributions to the franchise and the IPL as a whole.

Ashwin has been instrumental for CSK over the years, delivering crucial performances with the ball and adding valuable experience to the team. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable era in the IPL.

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Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from IPL:

Ravichandran Ashwin played a pivotal role in Chennai Super Kings’ early success, helping the franchise secure their first two IPL titles in 2010 and 2011. Beyond CSK, he also contributed significantly to Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, guiding them to runner-up finishes in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

Ashwin struggled with the ball during the 2025 IPL, taking just seven wickets in nine games as Chennai Super Kings finished last. He was even left out of CSK’s final matches. Despite this, his sudden decision to retire from the league might be one the experienced Tamil Nadu cricketer could reconsider in the future.

Reports had hinted that Ashwin’s tenure with CSK could be ending ahead of the 2026 auction. He departs the IPL as the fifth-highest wicket-taker, claiming 187 wickets in 221 matches at an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Ashwin confirmed his retirement via a post on his social media, bidding farewell to the league.

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🤓. Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the @IPL and the @BCCIfor what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me🙏#cricketforlife”

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

Three Reasons Ashwin’s IPL Retirement Might Be Mistaken:

With that in mind, here are three key reasons why Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL might not be the best choice. Despite his age and recent form, the veteran still has much to offer, both on the field with his skills and off the field as a mentor to younger players.

• Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 Return Fails to Impress at Chepauk

Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 did not go as smoothly as fans had hoped. Despite high expectations from the hometown crowd, the 38-year-old often struggled to make an impact, even in familiar Chepauk conditions. His performances fell short of the standards that once made him a match-winner.

Several factors contributed to Ashwin’s challenges. With Ravindra Jadeja cemented as a first-choice spinner and Noor Ahmad impressing from the very first match, Ashwin’s role as the third spinner disrupted the balance of the team. This limited opportunities and made it difficult for him to consistently influence matches.

CSK often used Ashwin in various phases of the game without a clear strategy, which affected his consistency. Despite this, other IPL franchises would value a spinner of his caliber, given his experience and proven success at the highest level.

An Indian spinner with Ashwin’s credentials allows teams to maximize their overseas players in batting, pace, and all-round roles. Had CSK released him ahead of the 2026 auction, it’s highly likely that multiple franchises would have shown interest, recognizing the advantage of adding a seasoned and effective spinner to strengthen their squad, even at 38 years of age.

• Ashwin’s True Form Better Than His IPL 2025 Performance Suggests

Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 season has been widely criticized by fans and former cricketers. However, a closer look at how he was used by CSK reveals that his role significantly affected his overall performance. The way he was deployed often worked against him, contributing to his disappointing bowling statistics.

CSK’s three-spinner strategy forced Ashwin to bowl during tough phases, particularly the powerplay. In these early overs, he was frequently targeted, conceding runs all around the ground. As a result, he struggled, finishing with an average of 112 and an economy rate of 12.44, numbers that did not reflect his true abilities as an experienced off-spinner.

When Ashwin bowled in the traditional spinner-friendly phases after the power play, his performance was far more effective. Across 22 overs, he claimed six wickets at an excellent average of 22, maintaining a tidy economy rate of 7.77, highlighting his continued skill and impact in the right conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin recently showcased his all-round abilities in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), performing strongly with both bat and ball. In 10 matches, he claimed 13 wickets at an average of 21.53, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.36, underlining his continued effectiveness as a bowler.

With the bat, the 38-year-old contributed 297 runs at an average close to 30, striking at 153.88 and hitting two half-centuries. These performances indicate that, outside of the IPL 2025 powerplay struggles, Ashwin remains in excellent form and capable of impactful contributions.

• Spinners of Ashwin’s Caliber Are Rare in the IPL

Bowling all-rounders have always been highly prized in T20 cricket due to their ability to provide balance and flexibility to a team. Their versatility makes them essential for constructing a well-rounded playing XI.

Ravichandran Ashwin possesses a rare combination of skills, excelling both with the ball and the bat. Over the years, teams have deployed him at various batting positions, from No. 3 to 8, depending on the match situation. His experience and adaptability make him a reliable contributor in multiple scenarios.

Having an Indian spinner of Ashwin’s quality also allows franchises to maximize overseas player slots. Apart from Washington Sundar, Ashwin is arguably the best off-spin all-rounder of Test-match standard in India, and many IPL teams would have eagerly sought his services.