R Ashwin set for ‘Team India’ return nine months after international retirement - but there's a twist

Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket last December, midway through the tour of Australia. However, he continued his participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he played for the Chennai Super Kings earlier this year. But just when speculations were rife over his trade from the CSK, Ashwin took to social media to announce his retirement from all forms of cricket last month.

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Upon his retirement, Ashwin revealed that he was available to work in various leagues worldwide. This even led to the spin bowling legend receiving offers from the Big Bash League, The Hundred and the ILT20. Although he has yet to officially confirm his availability for these overseas tournaments, on Thursday, Hong Kong Sixes organisers announced that Ashwin will be playing in the upcoming edition.

The organisers said in a release, "Widely regarded as one of the finest spin bowlers in modern cricket, Ashwin's inclusion adds immense depth, experience, and star power to Team India's campaign in this fast-paced, action-packed global tournament."

Ashwin said, "This format requires a different strategy and will prove to be high octane which I am looking forward to play alongside my ex-teammates. I am also thrilled to compete against some quality players in the opposition teams, it will be a good challenge for us."

The Hong Kong Sixes tournament, first held in 1992, is a six-a-side event. A game consists of a maximum of 5 six-ball overs bowled by each side, except for the final, which will consist of 5 eight-ball overs. Each member of the fielding side shall bowl one over, with the exception of the wicketkeeper.

The last edition, held in 2024, comprised 24 teams. Pakistan is the most prolific side in the tournament, having won five titles and finished as the runner-up five other times.

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