Ravichandran Ashwin Explains His IPL Retirement Ahead of 2026 Auction – Was MS Dhoni Involved?

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most accomplished spinners, shocked the cricket world by announcing his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2026 auction. Having been an integral part of multiple franchises over the years and finishing his IPL journey with the Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin’s decision marked the end of a remarkable chapter.

Why Did Ashwin Retire from the IPL?

Ashwin revealed that the biggest factor behind his decision was the physical and mental toll of the tournament. At 39, he admitted he no longer had the “bandwidth” to handle the demanding schedule of long travel, back-to-back games, and high-intensity performances. While his love for the game remains strong, the wear and tear of IPL cricket made him reconsider his priorities.

The Dhoni Question

Whenever a Chennai Super Kings player takes a big decision, MS Dhoni’s name naturally comes up. Many fans speculated whether Dhoni influenced Ashwin’s retirement. Ashwin quickly addressed this, clarifying that his decision was entirely personal. While he deeply respects Dhoni for shaping his career and often looks up to him as a mentor, Ashwin explained that his choice was based on self-reflection and future plans, not external influence.

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What’s Next for Ashwin?

Although he has stepped away from the IPL, Ashwin made it clear that he is not done with cricket. He has expressed interest in exploring overseas T20 leagues, potentially playing in tournaments where the workload is lighter compared to the IPL. Beyond playing, he also hinted at future roles in coaching, mentoring, and commentary—avenues where his cricketing intelligence and tactical mind can thrive.

Final Thoughts

Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL is not just the end of an era but also the start of a new journey. Known for his sharp cricketing brain and relentless curiosity, he is sure to make a lasting impact in whatever role he chooses next. While IPL fans will miss his clever variations and tactical mastery, the cricketing world will continue to benefit from Ashwin’s presence in different ways.

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