R Ashwin Registers for ILT20 Auction Following IPL Retirement

R Ashwin Registers for ILT20 Auction Following IPL Retirement

Veteran Indian cricketer R Ashwin has officially entered the International League T20 (ILT20) auction, just weeks after announcing his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, including the Indian Premier League (IPL). The fourth edition of the UAE-based league is scheduled to be held from December 2, 2025, to January 4, 2026.

Confirming the development to Cricbuzz, Ashwin said, “I have sent my name for the ILT20 auction. Hopefully, I will have a buyer.” His name will be included in the auction list once all formalities are completed. The registration deadline for the auction is September 10, and the auction itself is set to take place in Dubai on September 30.

The ILT20, which previously followed a draft system, has shifted to an auction format for the upcoming season—a move expected to bring more transparency and competition to the player acquisition process.

If picked, Ashwin would become the most high-profile Indian cricketer to participate in the league, which already features former Indian players like Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Ambati Rayudu. Five of the six ILT20 franchises are owned by Indian promoters, making the league a popular destination for Indian retired players.

Ashwin's Career at a Glance

The 38-year-old off-spinner is one of the most decorated Indian cricketers, having represented India in 282 international matches across formats. In the IPL, he featured in 221 games for five franchises: Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals.

Apart from his IPL career, Ashwin played extensively for Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket and appeared in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). He also played 65 T20 Internationals for India.

Future Plans

Ashwin is reportedly eyeing player-cum-coach roles in various international leagues. He is almost certain to appear in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA and The Hundred in England in 2026, expanding his post-retirement involvement in global T20 leagues.

ILT20: Star-Studded Line-Up

The ILT20 has already confirmed the participation of several international stars including:

  • Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Liam Livingstone, Jason Holder, Sam Curran, Wanindu Hasaranga, Shimron Hetmyer, Lockie Ferguson, Phil Salt, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shai Hope, Sikandar Raza, and Tim David, among others.

Competing Teams

  • MI Emirates

  • Gulf Giants

  • Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

  • Sharjah Warriorz

  • Dubai Capitals (Reigning Champions)

  • Desert Vipers

With the league growing in stature and popularity, Ashwin’s entry into the auction marks a significant moment for ILT20, as it continues to attract global talent and expand its reach in the T20 franchise circuit.