R Ashwin to play for India at Hong Kong Sixes 2025 after IPL and international retirement

R Ashwin is back in India colours for Hong Kong Sixes 2025
Ravichandran Ashwin will play for India at the Hong Kong Sixes from November 7 to 9, 2025. This is his first tournament after retiring from international cricket and stepping away from the IPL. It opens a new and exciting chapter in his career.
Why is this big news
Ashwin is one of the smartest bowlers of his era. In Hong Kong Sixes, matches are very short and fast. Bowlers need to think quickly and use clever changes of pace and spin. This suits Ashwin very well. He can also contribute with handy runs, which is useful in such a quick format.
What is the Hong Kong Sixes?
Hong Kong Sixes is a fun, six-a-side cricket event. Games are short, the boundaries are small, and the action is non-stop. Most players bowl an over, so all-round skills matter. The tournament has a festive feel and is known for big hits and smart tactics.
Ashwin on playing the Sixes
“ This format needs a different strategy and is high-octane. I’m excited to play with old teammates and face strong players. It will be a good challenge.”
Dates, place, and what’s coming
The tournament runs from November 7 to 9 in Hong Kong. India’s squad will include Ashwin, with more names expected soon. Fans can expect quick games, bold batting, and lots of strategic bowling changes.
Why Ashwin fits this perfectly
Ashwin reads batters fast and adjusts on the spot. His carrom ball, drift, and pace variations are hard to pick in a short spell. In a format where one over can change the game, his experience can guide the team. He can also play useful cameos with the bat at the end.
A quick look at Ashwin’s record
Ashwin has been a giant in Tests, with 500-plus wickets. He has taken key wickets in ODIs and T20Is too. In the IPL, he played over 200 matches and was known for control and clever match-ups. These strengths will help in Sixes, where every ball matters.
What to watch in Hong Kong
Watch for Ashwin bowling early to control the run flow. Look for his plans against left-handers, surprise quicker balls, and smart fields to make batters take risks. Also expect some inventive batting shots in pressure moments. It should be fast, fun, and full of small battles that decide games.