R Ashwin withdraws from ILT20 auction after no team picked him up. The legendary Indian spinner went unsold despite setting his base price at USD 120,000. This shocking result left cricket fans and experts completely stunned across social media platforms.
Ashwin pulled his name out right after the auction ended without any bids. He recently quit the IPL, hoping to play in different T20 leagues worldwide. But the ILT20 snub hit him hard and changed his plans immediately.
Simon Doull’s Surprise at Ashwin’s Decision
Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull couldn’t believe what happened at the auction. He said R Ashwin withdraws from ILT20 auction was a massive surprise for everyone. Doull thinks several teams had big budgets left and would’ve grabbed Ashwin later.
“We’re hearing that he may have pulled out of the auction, which is a massive surprise. I mean, you’ve got to read the room,” Doull said.
The Kiwi legend believes Ashwin’s early withdrawal might have actually helped auction viewership numbers. Teams with money to spend probably wanted him but missed their chance completely.
“You’ve got to understand what’s going on out there and all that money left, when there are 3-4 teams with over $400,000 left in their pot. I don’t think they came here not wanting to spend money – it’s there to be spent. If he pulled himself out, then he just hasn’t read the room. I think sides would have gone in for him,” he added.
Doull called this situation unfortunate for both Ashwin and the participating franchises there.
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Ashwin’s Recent IPL Struggles
Ashwin had a rough final season with the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. His performances didn’t match the high standards he set throughout his career before. These disappointing numbers pushed him to retire from the IPL tournament altogether recently.
The spinner wanted a fresh start in global T20 cricket after leaving CSK. But R Ashwin withdraws from ILT20 auction showed how unpredictable franchise cricket can be. Not getting picked stung badly for a player of his calibre and experience.
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Big Bash League Opportunity Ahead
Ashwin signed with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season, luckily. He joins the team in January 2026, when the tournament is already running. The veteran expressed excitement about working with Thunder’s leadership and coaching staff there.
Ashwin praised the team’s vision and feels aligned with their plans going forward. This BBL contract gives him another chance to shine in T20 cricket overseas.
