Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious Indian Premier League (IPL) career last month. In his farewell note shared on social media, the former India spinner categorially mentioned that he is ready to explore new leagues.
“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,” he wrote.
Now, it is expected that Ashwin could become the first high-profile Indian cricketer to take part in the ILT20 League.
Speaking to TOI, ILT20 CEO David White revealed that they are in talks with the legendary off-spinner and deal could be finalized in the near future.
"We're having very positive conversations with Ashwin, and hopefully we'll have positive news in the near future," White said.
"If we can have a player of his stature, it would be huge. He is a world-class, generational talent. He has over 500 Test wickets, an outstanding ODI and T20I career, and what a cricket brain. A charismatic figure, an intellect of the game. If he plays in the ILT20, we will be delighted," he added.
Ashwin has also spoken about serving both roles as a player and coach. Speaking on the same line, White said: "I think we're very open to anything like that. Not only his playing and coaching, but also his analytical skills. He has his own media company, which he's working on. He's a very clever guy. We would welcome all aspects."
When asked about the prospect of Ashwin plying his trade in the ILT20, White replied: "We hope to get him. Let's see what happens. Very positive for the man."
Ashwin could be the most sought-after player in overseas leagues, because of what he brings to the table as a seasoned spin bowler.
The 38-year-old started off his IPL career at CSK in 2009 and played a key role in the team’s title wins in 2010 and 2011. He was associated with the Chennai-based franchise till 2015 before joining the now-defunct Rising Pune Super Giants, followed by stints with the Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals.
Ashwin returned to his home franchise in 2025 after a gap of eight years, but failed to make a mark. Overall, he played 221 IPL matches and claimed 187 wickets at an economy rate of 7.20, finishing as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the league’s history.
Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket in December 2024, midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. He represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is, picking up 765 wickets across all formats.
Ashwin finished his career as the country’s second highest wicket-taker (537 scalps) in Test cricket, only behind Anil Kumble’s record tally of 619 dismissals.
