NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings penned an emotional tribute to R Ashwin after the veteran off-spinner announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old off-spinner, who began his IPL journey with CSK in 2009, brought his career full circle by finishing with the same franchise. Over the years, he played 221 matches for different teams, claiming 187 wickets - fifth highest wicket-taker in the IPL history.

From carrom balls to controversies: The IPL journey of Ravichandran Ashwin

"Chepauk's own. The carrom-ball thiruppura-sundaran (the beautiful spinner)!" CSK wrote, referring to one of Ashwin's favourite characters from the Tamil film Michael Madana Kama Rajan.

"From your first run-ups in Yellove on the dusty tracks of Anbuden to absolute spin domination in the world's grandest arenas, you've given us everything. You've pillared our legacy and made Fortress Chepauk roar like no other! You truly have the streets, Ashwin!

CSK unveiled a specially designed poster showcasing a massive image of Ashwin spread across the stands of the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

"Life comes in a full circle. The journey that began as a Super King, ends as a Super King. Forever a lion, forever one of us. Thank you for the Yellovely memories, Ash!" the franchise added.

Ashwin's IPL journey began with CSK in 2009, where he remained a key figure until 2015, collecting 90 wickets for the franchise. Following CSK's suspension in 2016, he joined Rising Pune Supergiant under the leadership of MS Dhoni but was forced to sit out the 2017 season due to injury.

Ravichandran Ashwin announces IPL retirement, eyes global T20 leagues

In 2018, Punjab Kings secured his services for Rs 7.60 crore after outbidding Rajasthan Royals and even entrusted him with the captaincy. However, despite Ashwin claiming 25 wickets across two seasons, Punjab failed to break into the top four on either occasion.

Ahead of the 2020 season, Ashwin was traded to Delhi Capitals, representing them for two years. At the 2022 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals secured his services for Rs 5 crore, pairing him with Yuzvendra Chahal to form a formidable spin duo.

He delivered consistent returns with 12 and 14 wickets in his first two seasons, before experiencing a dip in 2024, managing only 9 wickets at an economy of 8.49. Following his release by RR, CSK brought him back into the fold at a price of Rs 9.75 crore.