Ravichandran Ashwin leaves Kings XI Punjab for Delhi Capitals

Ashwin initially joined Kings XI after two years with Rising Pune Supergiant, having begun his IPL career in 2009 with Chennai Super Kings

Kings XI Punjab captain Ravichandran Ashwin has finalised his move to Delhi Capitals.

The Indian Premier League franchise’s co-owner, Ness Wadia, has confirmed that a deal has been agreed, with Capitals left-arm spinner Jagadeesha Suchith going in the other direction alongside an additional INR 1.5 crores (£164,300)

Ashwin, on the other hand, will earn INR 7.6 crores (£832,460) – his price in the 2018 auction – as part of the move, having led Kings XI Punjab for the last two seasons.

He initially joined the franchise now coached by Anil Kumble after two years with Rising Pune Supergiant, having begun his IPL career in 2009 with Chennai Super Kings.

“Everyone is happy with this deal,” Wadia told PTI. “We are happy, Ashwin is happy and Delhi is happy. We were in talks with three teams but have finally come to this conclusion. We wish Ashwin the very best.”

Ashwin added: “It has been a wonderful journey with Kings XI Punjab. I will always look back fondly at the two years I spent with the Kings and will miss all my teammates. I am looking ahead to new challenges.

“I would also like to thank the fans for their endless support over the two years, it was incredible to see them come out and support their team.”

^{Ashwin began his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings}

Chief executive Satish Meon added: “Ravichandran Ashwin was committed to serving for Kings XI Punjab during his two seasons and made sure he laid down a foundation for a better future.

“He has been instrumental for the presence of not only some of our key players in the squad but has also helped in grooming some of the stars of the future, particularly in the last season.”

In the last edition of the tournament, the 33-year-old off-spinner was involved in a moment of controversy after mankading Jos Buttler. He was criticised heavily by several professional players.

During his tenure in charge, however, Kings XI failed to correct the curious statistic that sees the team as one of three original IPL franchises never to have won the competition. As well as Chris Gayle, Ashwin was joined last season by England allrounder Sam Curran, who fetched £800,000 at auction.

No decision has yet been made on who will replace Ashwin as captain.

More similar trade deals are expected in the coming days, with the competition’s ‘transfer window’ closing on November 14.

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