Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is doing just that! He has registered for the International League T20 (ILT20) auction taking place on October 1. At 39 years old, Ashwin is quite keen to continue his T20 career. He announced his retirement from international cricket in December and the Indian Premier League (IPL) in August. He’ll now join the ILT20 from December 2 to January 4. This is an exciting new chapter for him personally and professionally.
Ashwin would be entering the ILT20 auction with a base price of $120,000, around £89,000. This decision makes him the highest-profile Indian player ever to join the T20 franchise circuit. With respect to the recently-concluded IPL season, Ashwin was a key feature in nine games for his team, Chennai Super Kings. He left international duties behind but brought all his experience to bear on the team.
His participation in the ILT20 comes at a time when several notable players have already been retained or signed by franchises. England internationals such as Phil Salt, Sam Curran, Tom Banton, Liam Livingstone, and Dan Lawrence are among those already committed to the league. Like both Stokes and Curran, renowned English bowler James Anderson will test his fortunes in the ILT20 auction. He made a cameo in The Hundred this summer, netting in just three appearances.
Speculation already has Ashwin heading to Australia to play in the Big Bash League (BBL) after his stint in the ILT20. This decision will continue to extend his T20 specialty career. This possible transition underlines Ashwin’s lasting significance in international cricket. It further highlights his skill to continually evolve with the fast pace, dynamic nature of T20 format.
The ILT20 offers Ashwin a platform to showcase his skills and leadership qualities as he joins a growing list of international players participating in this burgeoning league. His impressive experience and strategic savvy will surely prove him an invaluable addition to any franchise fortunate enough to bring him in.
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