The International League T20 (ILT20) will be played in the UAE from December 2 to January 4. The tournament, which earlier followed a draft system, has introduced an auction format this season, making it more exciting for players and franchises alike.
Ashwin in Talks with Organisers
Fresh from his retirement from both international and IPL cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin is preparing for a comeback. According to a report in Cricbuzz, ILT20 organisers are in talks with the veteran spinner, who has also confirmed his interest in registering for the September 30 auction in Dubai.
“Yes, I am in talks with the organisers. Hopefully, I will have a buyer if I register for the auction,” Ashwin told the website. The deadline for player registrations is September 10.
Could Become Biggest Indian Name in ILT20
If picked, Ashwin would be the biggest Indian star to play in the league. While Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan were previously signed, neither made an appearance. Ambati Rayudu remains the only Indian to have played in ILT20, featuring in eight matches for MI Emirates. Reports also suggest Ashwin reached out after receiving “assurances from teams.”
Storied Career Behind Him
Ashwin drew curtains on his international career in December 2023, midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, finishing with 537 Test wickets—the seventh-highest tally in history. Just last week, he ended his IPL journey, having represented five franchises across 221 matches: Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.
Eyes on Global Leagues Ahead
Beyond ILT20, Ashwin is exploring options for a player-cum-coach role in overseas T20 leagues. He is likely to feature in Major League Cricket (USA) and The Hundred (England) in 2025.
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