Ness Wadia Confirms Ravichandran Ashwin's Departure From Kings XI Punjab But Trade Deal Not Done Yet
Kings XI Punjab co-owner Ness Wadia has confirmed that the franchise and Ravichandran Ashwin have amicably decided to part ways. The franchise secured the services of the spinner before the 2018 season and handed him the captaincy straightaway. However, it did not end their long wait for the maiden IPL trophy.
Ravichandran Ashwin led Kings XI Punjab in the last two seasons and the team failed to make it to the playoffs even once. His performance with the ball, however was fine as he picked up 25 wickets in the last two seasons. But Kings XI Punjab have now decided to part ways with the former Chennai Super Kings star.
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Wadia confirmed the news and also made it clear that the spinner’s next team has not been finalised yet. Recently, reports emerged that Kings XI Punjab and Delhi Capitals have sealed the deal for the spinner. However, Wadia said the franchise has been talking to a number of teams.
“I know there is a lot of speculation but we are still talking. Ashwin is a very good, versatile player. Any team would love to have him. We are talking to a few different teams (including Delhi) and as soon as we are clear, we will announce it,” Ness Wadia was quoted as saying by PTI.
“We [Ashwin and KXIP] have amicably come to a conclusion that we should part ways and now we are trying to get the best fit, best solution for everyone. We are talking to a few teams to see where the best fit is and the best value comes for both Ashwin and ourselves. We want the best deal for everyone,” Ness Wadia added.
Meanwhile, KL Rahul is more than likely to lead the side after Ravichandran Ashwin’s departure. After the appointment of Anil Kumble as head coach, Kings XI’s management had considered Ashwin’s retention. However, Wadia has now made it clear that the spinner would leave the franchise ahead of the next season. The IPL transfer window closes next week, on November 14th, and the announcement of the trade-off is likely to be made before that.
