Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has entered the International League T20 (ILT20) auction at a massive base price of INR 1.06 crore which is the highest for any player. He is among the 24 Indians that have registered for the auction that is set to be held in Dubai on October 1. If Ashwin does get picked then the ILT20 will be the first overseas league he will feature in.
Ashwin reportedly in talks with BBL franchises
The upcoming season of the ILT20 will be its fourth and it will be comprising of a total of six teams. It will be beginning from December 2 and will go on till January 4. Following the conclusion of the tournament, Ashwin will also reportedly be featuring in the Big Bash League (BBL). According to a report by Cricbuzz, there are four franchises who have sent offers to the 39-year-old. This includes defending-champions Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers.
Recently, the ILT20 CEO David White had shared that they have no problem with Ashwin featuring in a player-coach role in the tournament.
"I think we are open to anything like that. Not only his playing and coaching, but also his analytical skills. He has his own media company, which he is working on. He is a very clever guy. We would welcome all aspects. We hope to get him. Let's see what happens. Very positive for the man," White told TimesofIndia.com.
Ashwin retired from IPL in August
Meanwhile, Ashwin had announced his retirement from IPL in August after featuring in the l;eague for 16 seasons. He had played for the Chennai Super Kings in the 2025 season and there were rumours that he will be parting ways with the franchise ahead of the upcoming campaign. However, the spinner decided to call time on his IPL career and even expressed his desire to participate in overseas leagues in a social media post.
"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 had written on his social media handle.
"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.
Meanwhile, there are multiple other T20 leagues Ashwin has been linked with for the next year. The 39-year-old is expected to be a busy man next year as he is likely to play in various different tournaments around the world.