Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s veteran off-spinner, has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League and is reportedly considering opportunities in overseas franchise cricket. Telegraph Sport indicates that England’s The Hundred in 2026 could be his next destination. The 37-year-old spinner took to social media to share his plans, ending speculation about potential IPL trades. Ashwin’s decision comes amid restrictions imposed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which bars active domestic players from participating in foreign leagues. Only after stepping away from the IPL can he feature abroad. A recent precedent was set by fellow Tamil Nadu cricketer Dinesh Karthik, who retired from the IPL in 2024 and played for Paarl Royals in SA20 during the 2025 season. Ashwin’s move, if finalized, would mirror this path. Read also: Can R Ashwin Join Overseas T20 Leagues After IPL Exit? BCCI Rule Explained Experience and Global Impact What makes Ashwin’s potential UK stint notable is the ownership overlap between IPL and The Hundred franchises. Nearly half of The Hundred teams are partly or wholly owned by groups that also run IPL sides. This connection could facilitate a smooth transition for Ashwin into the English competition. With 765 international wickets across formats, Ashwin brings immense experience. His presence could boost competitiveness and attract global viewership. Moreover, it could elevate The Hundred’s profile as it seeks to expand audiences beyond traditional markets. The top salary bracket in The Hundred is £200,000 (around ₹2.35 crore), well within expectations for a player of Ashwin’s stature. As of now, Ashwin has not confirmed his participation, and no franchise has officially secured his services. If the deal materializes, it would mark a new chapter in the career of one of India’s most accomplished spinners, extending his influence from domestic leagues to the global franchise stage.