Srikkanth Surprised by Ashwin’s IPL Retirement
Former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth has expressed surprise over Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden IPL retirement, insisting that the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend still had at least two more seasons left in him. His comments came soon after Ashwin, 38, announced his decision to quit the league following a tough 2025 campaign.
Ashwin ended the season with just seven wickets in nine matches, averaging 40.42 with an economy of 9.12. The off-spinner admitted his performance was not up to the mark, but his overall record speaks volumes. He retires as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history, collecting 187 wickets in 221 matches at an economy rate of 7.20.
Srikkanth Surprised by Timing of Ashwin’s Decision
Reacting on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, “I am not sure why Ashwin retired. If I were in his place, I would have continued playing IPL for at least another two years. Of course, for Ashwin, money, fame or name is not an issue. But he could have played in the IPL for another two years and then gone on to play in the other leagues.”
Ashwin himself has revealed that he now wants to explore global T20 leagues. While such a move might inspire other Indian players, Srikkanth stressed that no competition matches the IPL in terms of visibility, competition, and global attention.
“One can play other leagues for the sake of it, but what you get in the IPL, other leagues don’t come close to it,” he added.
Ashwin’s Legacy with CSK and the IPL
Praising Ashwin’s contribution to Indian cricket and the IPL, Srikkanth recalled how the spinner became a vital weapon for CSK in the early years of the tournament. He played a key role in helping the franchise win back-to-back IPL titles in 2010 and 2011, along with two Champions League T20 trophies.
“Ashwin has been one of the best IPL cricketers India has produced. His name to fame itself was through the IPL and CSK, especially when he kept dismissing Chris Gayle for fun,” Srikkanth remarked.
Ashwin’s decision to retire midway through the three-year cycle following the mega auction has left many surprised. Srikkanth concluded that while the timing was unusual, it could pave the way for Ashwin to contribute as a coach or continue his playing career in foreign leagues.
Ashwin’s IPL journey will remain a remarkable chapter in the league’s history. His tactical brilliance, variations, and match-winning spells earned him recognition as one of the finest off-spinners in T20 cricket. Fans and experts alike will continue to remember his influence on CSK and the IPL as a whole.
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