Ravichandran Ashwin in Talks to Join ILT20 2026, Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is in discussions with organisers to feature in the upcoming season of the International League T20 (ILT20), the UAE’s franchise-based T20 tournament. The veteran off-spinner recently bid farewell to both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Indian cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin has officially registered for the ILT20 auction, with September 10 set as the deadline for player entries. While the league previously followed a draft system, organisers have introduced an auction format for the first time this year.
The auction is scheduled for September 30 in Dubai, with the tournament itself running from December 2, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Ravichandran Ashwin is in discussions with the organisers regarding his participation in the ILT20 auction.
“Yes, I am in talks with the organisers. Hopefully, if I register for the auction, I’ll find a buyer,” he said.
The tournament, entering its fourth season this year, features six franchises — MI Emirates, Gulf Giants, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Sharjah Warriorz, Dubai Capitals, and Desert Vipers. Dubai Capitals are the defending champions.
According to Cricbuzz reports, Ravichandran Ashwin is also expected to feature in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA and The Hundred in England next year, with aspirations of taking up a player-cum-coach role in overseas leagues.
Meanwhile, Ashwin retired as one of the most successful bowlers in IPL history, claiming 187 wickets in 221 matches. Over his career, he represented five franchises — Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS), Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Rajasthan Royals (RR). He was part of CSK in the 2025 IPL season.
