Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket in December and stepped away from the IPL only last week, is preparing for a fresh chapter in the UAE’s International League T20 (ILT20).
The 38-year-old has confirmed talks with the organisers and is expected to put his name forward for the player auction in Dubai on September 30. Registration for the auction closes on September 10, with the tournament running from December 2 to January 4.
Ashwin Confirms Talks with Organisers
«Yes, I am in talks with the organisers. Hopefully, I will have a buyer if I register for the auction,» Ashwin told Cricbuzz, signalling his readiness to make his overseas debut.
If selected, he would be the most high-profile Indian cricketer to compete in the league’s four editions so far. Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan and Ambati Rayudu have previously taken part, with Rayudu featuring for MI Emirates in eight matches.
Ashwin arrives with a wealth of T20 pedigree. Across 221 IPL appearances for Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiant, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, he has collected 187 wickets at a 7.2 economy rate, ranking fifth on the league’s all-time wicket-takers list. He also contributed 833 runs at a strike rate of 118, including one half-century, and captained Punjab Kings during his stint there.
Future Plans Abroad
The veteran spinner has long shown interest in exploring foreign competitions. Reports suggest he could also join Major League Cricket in the United States and The Hundred in England next year, potentially taking on roles that combine playing with coaching.
Ashwin’s decision to enter the ILT20 comes after a difficult IPL 2025 campaign. Chennai Super Kings endured a dismal season at the foot of the table, with Ashwin taking only seven wickets in nine matches at 9.13 runs an over, and on occasions losing his place in the XI. Despite this, his reputation and experience make him one of the marquee names expected to draw attention in the UAE auction.
