• Fans shared their reactions to Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL retirement announcement.

  • Ashwin has retired from the cash-rich league but will continue featuring in other tournaments.

Fans pour out emotional reactions as Ravichandran Ashwin announces IPL retirement
Fans pour out emotional reactions as Ravichandran Ashwin announces IPL retirement (Image source: X)

Table of Contents

In an emotional announcement that shook the Indian Premier League (IPL) fraternity, Ravichandran Ashwin declared his retirement from the tournament, marking the end of a prodigious era for one of India’s finest spin masters. Ashwin took to social media, articulating his gratitude and optimism: “Special day and hence a special beginning. They say every ending will have a new start, my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today.”

His heartfelt thanks extended to all franchises, IPL, and BCCI, making it not just a personal milestone but a moment resonating deeply with his legion of fans. Across platforms, the announcement triggered a wave of emotional tributes, remembrances, and heartbreak, as fans shared their reactions to bidding adieu to an IPL icon.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL retirement leaves fans emotional with heartfelt reactions

Ashwin’s retirement from IPL didn’t just conclude a chapter—it unleashed a tidal wave of heartfelt responses among cricket lovers nationwide. Social media platforms were awash with nostalgia, appreciation, and sorrow, as fans recounted their favourite Ashwin moments—from his enigmatic carrom balls to his wily tactical moves in tense IPL face-offs. Many described feeling “heartbroken but grateful,” emphasizing how Ashwin shaped their love for spin bowling and stood out as a beacon of consistency across different franchises.

Some cricket enthusiasts recalled how Ashwin’s cerebral approach and sportsmanship energised their IPL viewership, with posts reading “IPL won’t be the same without his magic,” and “Thank you, Ashwin, for every unforgettable over.” Emotions poured in from all corners, professionals and amateurs alike, testifying to the Chennai-born off-spinner’s immense impact on India’s cricket culture. In fan groups, hashtags like #FarewellAshwin trended widely, underscoring his status as one of the game’s most revered ambassadors.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin reveals the shocking ‘extra money’ trick behind CSK’s IPL deal for Dewald Brevis

Numbers tell the tale of Ashwin’s IPL journey

Spanning 16 remarkable seasons since his IPL debut in 2009, Ashwin’s legacy is enshrined in standout numbers and pivotal moments. Representing five teams, he played 221 IPL matches and bowled 4710 balls, scalping 187 wickets with a best of 4/34 and an economy rate of 7.20. His ability to maintain a strike rate of 25.1 deliveries per wicket, taking crucial wickets in pressure situations, made him indispensable for sides like Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS).

Ashwin was more than just a bowler; as a handy lower-order batter, he amassed 833 runs, with a top score of 50, maintaining a strike rate of 118.15. Notably, in the last IPL seasons, while wickets grew elusive, his experience continued to mentor younger players and influence match outcomes. In CSK yellow, early seasons saw him deliver match-turning spells, while later years at RR and DC showcased his undiminished tactical acumen. Across IPL and the Champions League T20 (CLT20), Ashwin’s contributions transcended pure statistics, inspiring a generation of both fans and cricketers.

His announcement signals a shift toward global leagues, but for IPL loyalists, the end of Ashwin’s chapter is truly the end of an iconic era—and fans’ reactions make it clear he will be missed.

Also READ: Lucknow Super Giants set to part ways with Zaheer Khan ahead of IPL 2026

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: IPL Ravichandran Ashwin Twitter Reactions

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.