![Ravichandran Ashwin opens up on post retirement plans [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1756622861935_Ravichandran_Ashwin_CSK_IPL(1).jpg?type=mq)
Ravichandran Ashwin opens up on post retirement plans [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s greatest off-spinners, has officially ended his IPL journey, but he already knows what’s next. After bidding goodbye to the league where he first rose to fame, Ashwin has revealed that coaching could be his future.
The 38-year-old finished his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings, the very team where he began back in 2009. Over 16 seasons, he played 221 matches, picking up 187 wickets and scoring 833 runs.
He retired from international cricket in 2024, and earlier this week announced that he would not return for IPL 2026.
Ashwin Keen To Embrace Coaching Role
Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat,’ Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that coaching is his future. He revealed why he felt the time was right to embrace this important role.
“I am a very impulsive person. When I believe in something strongly, I run after it. Now I am running after joy in the game. My next chapter could probably be coaching. For that, I consider this a very important tool. I would like to believe that the game is preparing me for it," Ashwin said.
Interestingly, Ashwin revealed that during his time with the Rajasthan Royals, there were even talks about him taking on a dual role as player and coach. While the idea never materialised, he hinted that such opportunities might exist outside India, possibly in overseas leagues.
“Actually, when I was playing for Rajasthan Royals, we did broach this topic (of coach cum player). I won’t take names because it wouldn’t be right on my part. But we had discussions about whether one could play as a cricketer and also take up a coaching role at the same time. It didn’t go anywhere," he added.
Ashwin Registers For First Overseas League After IPL Retirement
Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently retired from the IPL, has confirmed that he has signed up for his first overseas T20 league.
The 38-year-old clarified he won’t play in every tournament but only for teams that genuinely need his skills. After a 16-year IPL career with five franchises, including Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin stepped away, citing the heavy demands of a full season.
Despite a tough final year, he finished with 187 wickets in 217 innings. Looking ahead, Ashwin said he wants to play with joy, free from expectations, and enjoy cricket like he once did in street games.
