Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), after a 16-year-long association with the tournament. The 38-year-old made the announcement on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, expressing his desire to explore opportunities in other global leagues. Ashwin had previously retired from international cricket in 2024.

Following Ashwin's announcement, his wife, Prithi Narayanan, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, "I love you! @rashwin99 Can't wait to see you do new things and scale new heights". Her words quickly resonated with supporters, shining a light on the strength behind his professional path.

Ashwin, a Chennai native, began his IPL career with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2008. He gained recognition in 2010 for his 'carrom ball,' taking 13 wickets with an impressive economy. CSK re-signed him for the 2011 season, where he took 20 wickets, helping them win back-to-back titles. He remained a key player for CSK until the team was suspended in 2016. He was an integral member of CSK's title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011.

After his stint with CSK, Ashwin played for several other franchises, including Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. In 2018, Kings XI Punjab acquired him for ₹7.6 crore and appointed him captain. At Rajasthan Royals, he was utilized as an all-rounder. In the 2025 auction, Ashwin made a homecoming to CSK, who bought him for ₹9.75 crore.

In his IPL career, Ashwin played 221 matches and took 187 wickets at an average of 30.22, with best figures of 4/34. He also scored 833 runs with a highest of 50 and an average of 13.02. Although his final season produced only seven wickets in nine games as CSK finished at the bottom, his tactical nous and adaptability ensured his reputation as one of the sharpest cricketing minds in the league remained intact.

Ashwin's decision to retire from the IPL comes after he had openly said that he was expecting clarity from CSK ahead of IPL 2026. He was bought for Rs 9.75 crore in the mega auction before the 2025 season.

CSK paid a heartfelt tribute to Ashwin, acknowledging his contributions to the team. "Chepauk's own. The carrom-ball thiruppura-sundaran (the beautiful spinner)!" CSK wrote, referring to one of Ashwin's favourite characters from the Tamil film Michael Madana Kama Rajan. "From your first run-ups in Yellove on the dusty tracks of Anbuden to absolute spin domination in the world's grandest arenas, you've given us everything. You've pillared our legacy and made Fortress Chepauk roar like no other! You truly have the streets, Ashwin!".

Ashwin's retirement from the IPL means he will now be able to play in foreign franchise leagues. He has hinted at exploring opportunities in other global leagues like The Hundred and SA T20. The BCCI, however, does not allow any current Indian players to feature in overseas leagues.