NEW DELHI: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from the IPL. Sharing the news on X, Ashwin stated that he now plans to explore opportunities in cricket leagues across the globe.

"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," Ashwin posted on X.

Ashwin expressed heartfelt thanks to the IPL franchises he has played for, appreciating the relationships and memories he has built over the years.

"Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the @IPL and the @BCCI for what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me," he added.

Ashwin bowed out of the IPL with an impressive tally of 187 wickets from 221 matches, fifth-highest wicket-taker in the league. Over his 14-year career, he represented multiple franchises, including Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals.

Ashwin’s IPL retirement comes nine months after he concluded his international career. Following India's drawn Melbourne Test against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the 38-year-old announced his decision during the post-match press conference alongside former captain Rohit Sharma.

Ashwin now has the opportunity to feature in global T20 leagues such as the BBL in Australia, SA20 in South Africa, The Hundred in England, and the CPL in the West Indies.