India’s veteran cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed interest in playing in the ILT20 League, just days after announcing his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 38-year-old off-spinner confirmed that he is in discussions with the organizers and hopes to have a franchise bid for him in the auction.

Ashwin made his IPL debut in 2009 and last played in 2025 for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). In his retirement statement, he mentioned that he is keen to explore other countries’ cricketing leagues. The ILT20 League, which introduced an auction system this year, may provide him with the opportunity to do so.

The auction is scheduled to take place on September 30 in Dubai, with the last date for enrollment being September 10. The tournament will run from December 2, 2025, to January 4, 2026. If Ashwin registers for the auction and gets picked, he will become the fourth Indian to play in the ILT20 League, joining Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Ambati Rayudu.

Ashwin has had a successful IPL career, representing CSK, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals. He has picked up 187 wickets in 221 IPL games at an average of 30.22 and was part of CSK’s title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011. The veteran cricketer has also played for Dindigul Dragons in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) and captained the side this year.

With 317 scalps in 333 T20 games, Ashwin is a notable addition to any team. His interest in playing in the ILT20 League may attract significant attention, given his experience and skills. The auction will determine whether Ashwin will join the league, and if so, which franchise will secure his services. As the cricket world awaits the outcome, Ashwin’s potential participation in the ILT20 League is likely to generate excitement among fans and teams alike.